proper RPM for auger?

[cart99]

My neighbors and I were doing some work that required running a post-hole-digger off a B7800. Two of us said that it was best to run the auger at the recommended rear PTO speed of 540 rpm, but the third felt that that was meant primarily for mowers and that the auger worked better and was probably safer running at a lower rpm.

Who was right? I will say which side of the debate I was on once I get some responses /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[Bob_Skurka]

I always start the auger slowly and build speed depending on the soil conditions. The PHD is probalby the most dangerous implement I can imagine and needs to be treated with some level of respect.

 

[DK35vince]

I never run my post hole digger at PTO speed, to hard to control.
I run my post hole digger just above idle and occassionally speed it up to clean the hole out.

 

[ksmmoto]

I run mine at idle, maybe slightly higher. The only PTO implement I run that slow.

ksmmoto

 

[SkyPup]

I've never operated our PHDs anywhere near 540 PTO rpms during thousands of fence post installations.

It'd just be a dangerous way to waste fuel. /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

 

[Bird]

I think you'll find an almost unanimous opinion that you at least start very slowly. I wouldn't want to be anywhere in the vicinity of one that started (or was pulled out of the hole) running at the 540 rpm PTO speed.

 

[bird1968]

I also agree with Bird & the rest of the boys.

So, what side where u on? /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[texbaylea]

With my deep sandy land, I never have to go above idle. On my former deep clay soil I would often speed up to clear the auger bit. I doubt I ever got to 540 rpm on the PTO.

Vernon

 

[Jimbrown]

My Land Pride PHD instructions say to use a max of 320 pto rpm. I usually dig at just above idle.

 

[JerryG]

If the ground is hard and or rocky, you will find that the auger doesn't have time to cut in if running to fast. In soft soil, if it is running very fast there is a larger chance that the auger will screw itself in and then you will have fun getting it out. Like has been said it is better to run it slow.