Earth Auger (1003377) Check Availability

About:

Augers are mostly used for one thing – drilling holes. Some of the more typical industrial applications include drilling holes for fence posts, telephone poles, and deck posts to name a few.  

This Unit:

Important: Remove all gasoline from tank and mixing bottle before returning to the library.

The motor is in it's cardboard box with a mixing bottle, some 2-cycle oil, and a manual.

There is a separate wooden box with three auger "bits", 4", 6", and 8" sizes. There are also extensions in the box.

Operation:

Important: Check your drilling locations for roots, rocks, or other obstructions that can bind the auger as you dig. It could jerk the auger suddenly if you hit them.

Benefits of an earth Auger are:

• Speed: Earth augers are significantly faster than digging by hand or using post hole diggers. ...

• Convenience: Earth augers are easy to use and require less physical effort compared to manual digging. ...

• Accuracy: Earth augers create neat, uniform holes.

If you’ve ever spent time post hole digging, then you know it can be a cumbersome, backbreaking job, especially if multiple holes need to be made. Luckily an auger simplifies this job, and it’s a tool that you can put to a variety of other uses. Here are a few reasons why drilling post holes is easier with an auger. Then, you can choose the right Power Planter auger for your project.

Digging Fence Post Holes and Other Auger Applications

If you need to drill post holes, then an auger is the perfect way to simplify the job. You’ll want to consider the size of hole, relative to the post or item you are accommodating, when selecting an auger. 

Many projects require an auger. Use it when you’re digging a mailbox post hole, or if you need to run a fence, put up a flagpole or set posts to install a new deck. 

How Drilling a Post Hole Is Easier With an Auger

Traditional, by-hand, Method:

1. Prepare Your Tools: Gather a variety of shovels, a clamshell digger, and a steel spud bar.

2. Dig a Pilot Hole: Use a pointed shovel to dig a pilot hole at your desired location. This should be a shallow hole that marks where your post will go.

3. Remove Topsoil: Use a flat-edged shovel to remove any topsoil around the pilot hole.

4. Deepen the Hole: Insert the clamshell digger into the pilot hole and open its jaws to grab soil. Lift the soil out and set it aside. Repeat until the hole is deep enough for your post.

5. Break Up Obstacles: If you encounter rocks or hard soil, use a steel spud bar to loosen them. Pry at the stones and soil until you can remove them with the clamshell digger.

Note: This method requires frequent bending, lifting, and prying, which can be strenuous on your back.

Using a Power Auger:

1. Prepare Your Tools: You’ll need only an auger and a shovel to dig a pilot hole.

2. Position the Auger: Place the auger where you want the hole to go. It can be beneficial to remove the sod so the auger immediately starts drilling and does not get tangled or clogged with the sod.

3. Operate the Auger: Turn on the auger and allow it to drill into the ground. Make sure it drills to your desired depth.

4. Remove the Auger: Once you’ve reached the desired depth, turn off the auger and lift it out of the hole.

Both methods for digging post holes have their merits, but they offer different advantages depending on your needs and physical condition.

The traditional method, while effective, requires multiple tools and a greater degree of physical labor. It involves frequent bending, lifting, and prying at rocks and soil, which can be strenuous, especially for those not in peak physical condition or those prone to backaches.

On the other hand, using an auger to dig post holes simplifies and speeds up the process considerably. With an auger, there’s significantly less physical strain, as it eliminates the need for bending and lifting. You also won’t have to manually deal with obstacles like rocks or hard soil. This makes it a highly efficient option, particularly for contractors who need to dig multiple holes in a short period of time, as it not only saves physical effort but also time and even labor costs for professionals.

Safety:

Here are some tips for safely using an earth auger: 

• Use your legs: Avoid back strain and injury by using your legs to lift and absorb shock instead of your back. 

• Know the shut-off switch: Be ready to stop the machine quickly. 

• Secure the auger: When taking a break, keep the auger upright in a finished hole to prevent fluids from flooding the motor. 

• Don't remove while running: Never remove the auger from the ground while it's still spinning because the force could cause you to lose control. 

• Wear protective gear: Sturdy, snug-fitting clothing, gloves, hard hats, and safety shoes can help keep you safe. 

• Mark underground utilities: Follow proper installation procedures to ensure a safe drilling environment. 

• Start slowly: Begin slowly and gradually increase the speed. 

• Use a dabbing motion: This can help you make the hole more easily. 

• Clear the dirt out frequently as you go. Digging all the way down can pin the auger deep and make it very difficult to remove.

• Stop if you hit something: If you hit a rock or tree root, stop the machine and dig it out by hand before continuing. 

Loan Notes: