Posthole Digger It just wont dig

[feedsack]

I started to dig some post holes and depending on where on the property I am I can did one in 10 minutes or it will go down 6 inches and just turn. I have east Texas gumbo soil and its rock hard now but I always seem to be able to dig. What could the problem be?

 

[teg]

Might need extra weight on the PHD (or down pressure $$$). Someone not too long ago posted a photo of the weight he hung on the end of his PHD. What does the tip of the auger look like... they can get dull. How old is the unit?

 

[Iplayfarmer]

Teg might be referring to my very temporary proof of concept weight that I put on my post hole digger...

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/...w-me-posthole-digger-power-5.html#post2101242

The weight did make a huge difference. I also replaced the digging blades. It that same thread I have a picture of the gravelly soil that the digger went through.

With the new blades and the weight hanging off the back, I dug 16 holes about 4 ft. deep in about an hour. You should be able to get better than 10 minutes for 6 inches. Is the ground too dry?

 

[inveresk]

I had the same problem that was solved by replacing the teeth on the auger.

 

[gwdixon]

Had the same problem several years ago with fenceposts in 1 foot of topsoil over 12 feet of clay.

The only solution is to do it in springtime or fill the hole with water and wait a couple of days then try again.