Using post hole digger on existing fence

[Creamer]

The technique we always used in replacing a wood post is to try to get the old post pulled out - usually a couple of crow bars jammed into the stub over wood blocks. Then we used a long handled shovel or crowbar which go into the ground easily to hold the wire back - one guy holding the top end. the other guy operating the tractor. It doesn't matter which side of the fence you are on just push the wires away from the tractor.

If you cannot get the old stub out just dig a hole beside it - far enough away that the new post is not affected by the old one rotting away - 12" or so.

Never had much trouble with barbed wire getting caught in the auger as it is not turning fast and doesn't really grab it. Just stop it or push it away again quick.

The auguring in problem is a problem with the operator - don't let the 3 pt go down that fast the augur is turning faster than the 3 pt is going down so you are lifting the dirt and cleaning the hole as you go.

 

[kthompson]

Creamer may be very right smooth auger may not catch the wire but what came to my mind the moment I read it was cut a barrel or tank open to get a semi circle and mount it between the auger and the wire so the tractor pushes it into the wire and from the post. The auger could fit inside the semi circle depending on the amount of dirt piling up. May could mount it to the phd head but would need links to the lift arms or such to give solid push.