How to choose the right post hole digger and auger
What matters first is the tractor, which determines the post hole digger, and then the type of hole, which determines the auger.
1. Power and hitch
The lightest model, about 82 kg, needs at least 35 hp; the other two, 100 and 130 kg, at least 40 hp. A 540 rpm PTO with clockwise rotation is required, plus a category 1 or 2 three-point hitch depending on the model. Also check the distance between the lower lift arms: about 45–73 cm, or 63–74 cm for the version with hydraulic cylinder.
2. Auger diameter
The auger is chosen according to the hole: 10 cm for thin stakes and vines, 15 cm for vineyard posts and plant supports, 20 cm for fence posts, 30 cm for planting trees and shrubs. All augers fit the same digger and drill down to about 1–1.25 m.
3. Standard or with hydraulic cylinder
All models are PTO-driven. On the standard version the arm is lowered and raised with the tractor lift; on the version with hydraulic cylinder it is moved by a cylinder connected to the tractor with two hoses and 1/2 inch quick couplers, so the auger's descent is controlled with the hydraulic valve.
4. How to use it
The arm angle is adjustable to keep the auger vertical even on ground that is not perfectly level. Lower the auger slowly and lift it now and then to clear the soil, especially in deep holes.
5. Safety
Never approach the auger or the PTO shaft while the PTO is engaged, and check that the guards are intact. Before drilling, make sure there are no buried pipes or cables at that spot. With large stones or roots, proceed carefully so as not to overload the driveline and the tractor.
| Auger | Blades | Drilling depth | Weight | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ø 10 cm | 2 | about 100 cm | about 9 kg | Thin stakes, vines |
| ø 15 cm | 2 | about 125 cm | about 8 kg | Vineyard posts, plant supports |
| ø 20 cm | 2 | about 109 cm | about 16 kg | Fence posts |
| ø 30 cm | 4 | about 100 cm | about 19 kg | Trees and shrubs |
Is the post hole digger compatible with my tractor?
Yes, if the tractor has at least 35–40 hp depending on the model, a 540 rpm PTO, the three-point hitch of the stated category and a compatible distance between the lower arms. The diggers are designed for small and medium-sized tractors, not for high-power tractors.
Are the augers included?
No, the augers are bought separately, so you can choose the diameter that suits your work. All four fit the same digger, so you can have more than one and change them according to the hole.
How deep is the hole?
Up to about 1 m with the 10 and 30 cm augers, about 1.1 m with the 20 cm auger and about 1.25 m with the 15 cm auger.
What is the difference between the standard version and the one with hydraulic cylinder?
Both are driven by the 540 rpm PTO. On the version with hydraulic cylinder, the arm is moved by a cylinder connected to a tractor hydraulic outlet, so the auger's descent and lift are controlled with the hydraulic valve.
Can it be used on hard or stony ground?
Yes, with a few precautions: lower the auger slowly and lift it often to clear the soil. The point and blades are replaceable and should be changed when worn, as worn blades slow down drilling.
Can you drill on a slope?
The arm angle can be adjusted to keep the auger vertical on slightly sloping ground. On steep slopes, pay attention to the tractor's stability and always work carefully.
What maintenance does it need?
Regularly check the gearbox oil level, grease the PTO shaft and check the wear of point and blades. Blades and spare parts are available through the express spare parts service.
Products marked with the Italian flag and the Made in Italy indication are designed and manufactured predominantly in Italy; products without these indications are essentially manufactured abroad.
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