Skid Steer Auger

The Best Skid Steer Auger

Here are some of the best Skid Steer Augers on The Trade Table:

Loflin Fabrication Auger

The Loflin Fabrication Auger is a powerful, American-made skid steer attachment built for precision and strength across a variety of digging jobs. Featuring a high-torque Auburn planetary drive and a universal 2” hex output shaft, it easily handles auger bits from 4 to 48 inches. Ready for the job site, it comes equipped with Parker hydraulic hoses, fittings, and couplers, and is constructed with heavy-duty materials and a durable powder-coated finish for long-lasting performance in tough conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Skid Steer Auger

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions About The Skid Steer Auger:

What Is A Skid Steer Auger?

A Skid Steer Auger is a powerful drilling attachment used with a skid steer loader. It helps dig holes quickly and efficiently for tasks like fence posts, trees, or foundations. The auger bit rotates to break into the ground and remove soil.

How Does A Skid Steer Auger Work?

It connects to the hydraulic system of your skid steer and powers a spinning drill bit. The bit cuts into the ground as it spins, digging a hole and pulling the dirt up. It’s designed for speed, control, and deep drilling.

What Projects Can You Use A Skid Steer Auger For?

You can use it for fence installation, planting trees or shrubs, setting deck footings, and digging footings for posts or signs. It’s also helpful for soil sampling or even light construction tasks. Basically, anything that needs clean, deep holes.

Can A Skid Steer Auger Drill Through Rocky Or Hard Soil?

Yes, but you’ll need a heavy-duty bit made for rocky or compacted soil. Standard bits may struggle or wear down quickly. For tough jobs, use a rock auger with reinforced tips or teeth.

What Sizes Of Auger Bits Are Available For Skid Steer Augers?

Auger bits typically range from 4 inches to 36 inches in diameter. Smaller bits are used for tasks like soil sampling, while larger ones are ideal for big post holes. Extensions can also add depth.

How Deep Can A Skid Steer Auger Typically Drill?

Most can drill about 3 to 4 feet deep with a standard bit. You can go deeper by adding extension shafts. The total depth depends on your auger’s capacity and ground conditions.

Is A Skid Steer Auger Compatible With Standard Hydraulic Systems?

Yes, most augers are designed to work with standard flow hydraulics. However, for tougher soil or larger bits, high-flow may offer better performance. Always check your skid steer’s specs before buying.

Do You Need High-Flow Hydraulics To Use A Skid Steer Auger?

Not always—many augers are built for standard-flow machines. But high-flow helps when you need extra torque or plan to use large-diameter bits. It’s ideal for heavy-duty or professional work.

How Do You Attach A Skid Steer Auger To Your Machine?

The auger mounts to the universal quick-attach plate on the front of your skid steer. You’ll then connect the hydraulic hoses to the machine. Once it’s secure and hooked up, it’s ready to use.

Can You Use Different Types Of Bits With The Same Skid Steer Auger?

Yes, most augers support interchangeable bits. You can switch between dirt, rock, or tree bits depending on your project. Just make sure the bit fits your auger’s drive size and shaft.

Are Extensions Available To Drill Deeper With A Skid Steer Auger?

Yes, you can use auger extensions to go beyond the standard depth. These are easy to attach and give you the flexibility for deeper holes. They come in various lengths to suit different jobs.

Can A Skid Steer Auger Be Used For Fence Post Holes?

Absolutely—it’s one of the most common uses for a skid steer auger. You can dig clean, straight holes quickly and consistently. It’s a big time-saver for fence installation projects.

Is A Skid Steer Auger Effective For Digging In Clay Soil?

Yes, but it helps to use a bit with aggressive teeth. Clay can be sticky and tough, so proper bit design and hydraulic power make a difference. Keep your bit clean to prevent clogging.

How Do You Maintain A Skid Steer Auger Bit?

Clean the bit after every use to remove dirt and debris. Regularly inspect it for wear, especially the teeth and edges. Lubricate moving parts to keep the auger running smoothly.

What Type Of Grease Or Lubrication Does A Skid Steer Auger Need?

Use general-purpose lithium grease for the pivot points and any moving parts. Check the manufacturer’s manual for exact specs. Keep all fittings greased to avoid premature wear.

How Do You Prevent A Skid Steer Auger From Getting Stuck?

Avoid drilling in overly wet or sticky ground, and don’t force the auger too quickly. Pull it up occasionally while drilling to clear out soil. If it does get stuck, reverse the spin to back it out.

What Safety Precautions Should You Follow When Operating A Skid Steer Auger?

Always wear protective gear and keep bystanders away. Check the ground for utilities before drilling. Make sure the attachment is properly secured before use.

Can A Skid Steer Auger Be Used For Tree And Shrub Planting?

Yes, it’s great for planting larger trees or shrubs. You can dig uniform holes quickly, which saves time and energy. Just pick a bit size that matches the root ball.

How Long Does It Take To Drill A Hole With A Skid Steer Auger?

Most holes take under a minute to drill, depending on soil type and bit size. Harder ground may slow things down. The machine does the heavy lifting, so it’s much faster than manual digging.

What Is The Ideal Ground Condition For Using A Skid Steer Auger?

Dry, loose soil is the easiest to work with. However, augers can handle clay, compacted, or even frozen ground with the right bit. Avoid large rocks or underground obstructions.

How Do You Know When To Replace The Teeth On A Skid Steer Auger Bit?

If the auger stops cutting well or you see chipped or worn teeth, it’s time to replace them. Dull teeth make the job harder and slower. Inspect them regularly, especially after heavy use.

What Is The Typical Diameter Range Of Skid Steer Auger Bits?

Most bits come in sizes from 4 to 36 inches in diameter. Choose the size based on your hole size needs. Larger bits are for trees or structural posts, smaller ones for fence or sign posts.

Can A Skid Steer Auger Be Used On Uneven Ground?

Yes, but you’ll need to keep the machine stable and level. Use caution to avoid tipping or crooked holes. Some augers have pivoting mounts to help adjust for slopes.

What Is The Weight Of A Skid Steer Auger Attachment?

It varies, but most auger attachments weigh between 250 to 500 pounds. The exact weight depends on size and whether it includes a planetary drive. Always check your skid steer’s lift capacity.

How Do You Store A Skid Steer Auger When Not In Use?

Clean it, grease any fittings, and store it in a dry, sheltered area. Keep the bit off the ground to prevent rust. You can use a storage stand or cradle to keep it upright.

Can A Skid Steer Auger Work In Cold Or Frozen Ground?

Yes, but it’s more challenging. Use a heavy-duty bit and allow extra time for drilling. High-flow hydraulics can help power through frozen soil.

What Is The Difference Between A Direct Drive And Planetary Drive Skid Steer Auger?

Direct drive augers are simpler and more affordable, good for light-duty work. Planetary drives offer more torque and durability for heavy-duty jobs. Choose based on your project needs.

How Do You Choose The Right Bit For Your Skid Steer Auger?

Consider the soil type, hole diameter, and depth needed. Use a rock bit for tough soil, a tree bit for planting, and a standard bit for general use. Match the shaft size to your auger.

How Do You Remove A Skid Steer Auger Bit After Use?

Shut off the machine, relieve the pressure, and unpin the bit. Use gloves and lift carefully, especially if it’s muddy or heavy. Store it securely to prevent damage.

Can A Skid Steer Auger Be Used In Wet Or Muddy Conditions?

Yes, but wet soil can clog the bit and make drilling harder. Pull the auger out frequently to clear it. Make sure your machine has good traction to avoid getting stuck.

Where To Buy A Skid Steer Auger?

You can buy a Skid Steer Auger at The Trade Table.