Everything You Need To Know About Skid Steer Augers
When you work in the construction or landscaping industry, having the right machinery ensures you complete tasks effectively. A skid steer auger is one of many pieces of equipment needed to get the most out of this tool, especially if you drill into rock, soil, or other materials. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about skid steer augers.
What Are Skid Steer Augers?
Generally, professionals equip their skid steer with an auger attachment when they need to drill holes in the ground. They are powerful attachments that connect to a variety of skid steer loaders, making them versatile and efficient tools for various types of construction and landscaping projects.
Skid steer augers consist of four main parts, including the following:
- The drive unit attaches to the skid steer loader and provides the power to rotate the auger bit.
- The mounting frame connects the drive unit to the auger bit and stabilizes it during operation.
- Auger bits are responsible for drilling into the ground; the teeth help to break up tough materials.
Each of these components plays an essential role in the efficiency and performance of the skid steer auger, making it a valuable asset for any construction or landscaping project.
Industries That Use Skid Steer Augers
A skid steer auger provides precision for digging holes, planting trees, setting fence posts, and installing utilities. Due to this, it’s beneficial to a range of industries, including the following:
- Construction
- Landscaping and agriculture
- Utilities
Below, we’ve explained how each industry uses and benefits from this essential tool.
Construction Applications
In construction, the skid steer auger is ideal for foundational work. Tasks such as building supports or installing posts require a solid base, which an auger provides. Rather than manually dig out the hole, operators use this skid steer accessory to do it for them.
Landscaping and Agriculture
Landscaping and agriculture often demand significant terrain adjustment and structure installation. Skid steer augers are instrumental in these industries for planting trees, installing hardscapes, or maintaining irrigation systems.
An auger’s ability to drill post holes quickly and accurately saves time and minimizes disruptions to the surrounding landscape.
Utilities
Skid steer augers come in handy for drilling holes for poles, signs, and anchors. Operators can also use the auger for pipe laying, whether they need to install gas lines, water pipes, or electrical lines.
How To Maintain Your Skid Steer Auger
Just as a finely tuned vehicle delivers peak performance, regular maintenance and care are vital to ensuring that your skid steer auger operates optimally. Neglecting regular checks can result in costly damage and downtime.
Moreover, keeping the hydraulic system clean by using good-quality hydraulic fluid is crucial. Any contamination could damage the hydraulic motor, resulting in an ineffective auger.
Perform Daily Inspections
Visually inspect the tool and all components at the start of each workday. Check for any signs of wear, loose bolts, hydraulic leaks, or other potential issues. You should also check that the flight weld of this tool has no cracks, as this can damage the machine.
Ensure all hydraulic connections are secure and fit the manufacturer’s specifications. Lubricate all moving parts as per the recommended schedule and keep a log of these activities to track the condition of the skid steer accessory.
To avoid damage to your tool, you should also check the auger teeth regularly and replace them when necessary. If you notice any issues during your inspection, stop using the skid steer auger and address the problem immediately to prevent further damage.
Tips for Buying Skid Steer Augers
When it comes to the many things you need to know about skid steer augers, knowing what qualities to look for as you shop for this tool is pivotal. Always take your options into careful consideration and research the tool by reading reviews to make sure you make the right purchase.
Assess Your Needs
Begin by identifying the primary tasks for which you will be using the skid steer auger. Consider the soil type, required hole depth and diameter, and how often you’ll use the tool. These factors will help you determine the torque, hydraulic flow requirements, and bit types best suited for your application.
Hydraulic Flow
Hydraulic flow refers to the amount of fluid that flows through the hydraulic system in a given time. We typically measure it in gallons per minute (GPM), and it determines the power output of the skid steer loader’s hydraulic pump. Purchasing a tool with too little hydraulic flow may lead to slower drilling times, but too much could cause damage to the motor.
Torque
The torque output impacts the maximum hole size an auger can drill. Torque is a measure of the force applied to rotate or turn an object, and in this case, it refers to the power of the skid steer’s hydraulic motor. Skid steer augers come in different torque ratings, so select one that corresponds with your loader’s output capabilities.
Size
The size of the auger bit depends on the type and diameter of holes needed for your application. Consider factors such as ground conditions, hole depth, and intended use when selecting the right bit size. As you review the auger bit’s size, also consider the weight of the auger and compare it to your machine’s capacities.
Choose a Reputable Manufacturer
Ensure that you buy your skid steer auger from a manufacturer that offers high-quality products and services. If you buy online, they may list key information, such as torque, dimensions, and capacity of the auger.
As you narrow down skid steer accessory manufacturers, also consider the level of support and warranty each option offers. Evaluate the after-sales service offered by the manufacturer, such as the availability of spare parts and the expertise of their service team. A comprehensive warranty can save you from the financial burden of unexpected repairs, especially in the first few years of operation when the machine is most susceptible to issues.
Shop for Quality
While buying cheaper equipment seems tempting, this can increase your risk of buying low-quality machinery. Instead, look for manufacturers with a reputation for producing reliable, durable equipment.
We sell high-quality skid steer augers that are compatible with a range of skid steers. We have various models, each with different torque, hydraulic flow, and bit size, to ensure every operator finds the right accessory for their machine.
Our family-owned business has over 20 years of experience in selling skid steer attachments and can answer any questions you may have about this machinery.
