Auger attachments for mini skid steer loaders are hydraulic tools used to drill holes into soil, clay, and other substrates. These compact attachments are ideal for tight-access environments, providing high torque for efficient drilling with reduced manual labor.
2. Applications
Fence post and sign installation
Tree and shrub planting
Footings for decks, sheds, or small structures
Soil sampling and geotechnical work
Light-duty construction or landscaping jobs
3. Compatibility
3.1 Mounting System
Mount Type
Compatible Loaders
Mini Universal Plate
Toro Dingo, Vermeer, Ditch Witch, Boxer, Kanga, etc.
Bobcat MT Interface
Bobcat MT series (may require specific adapter)
Always verify that the auger drive’s mount plate matches your mini skid steer’s attachment interface.
3.2 Hydraulic Requirements
Parameter
Typical Range
Flow Rate
6 – 15 GPM
Operating Pressure
1,500 – 3,000 PSI
Coupler Type
⅜″ or ½″ Flat Face ISO
Case Drain
Not typically required
Check your loader’s hydraulic output before selecting an auger drive to avoid underperformance or damage.
4. Key Components
Component
Function
Hydraulic Drive Unit
Converts hydraulic flow into rotational power to turn the auger bit
Auger Bit / Flight
Helical shaft that drills into the ground and lifts debris
Planetary Gearbox (optional)
Increases torque for heavy or dense soil types
Mounting Frame
Secures auger to mini skid steer’s attachment plate
Bit Extension (optional)
Increases drilling depth when required
Bit Hub
Interface between drive unit and auger bit (common types: 2″, 2.5″, hex)
5. Auger Bit Options
Bit Type
Use Case
Standard Dirt Bit
General-purpose drilling in soft to medium soils
Rock Bit
Hard, compacted soils and mixed rocky conditions
Tree Bit
Wider diameter with shallow depth for root ball planting
Clay Bit
Modified flight spacing to handle sticky soil types
6. Technical Specifications (Typical Range)
Specification
Typical Value
Drive Torque
800 – 3,000 ft-lb
Auger Diameter Options
4″ – 24″+
Maximum Bit Depth
36″ – 60″ (with extensions)
Drive Weight
150 – 400 lbs
Bit Shaft Style
2″ or 2.5″ Hex (most common)
Mount Type
Mini Universal or Bobcat MT
7. Operating Guidelines
7.1 Setup
Attach the auger drive to the mini skid steer’s quick-attach plate
Connect hydraulic lines; check for correct flow direction
Choose the appropriate bit for the soil and hole diameter
Perform a test run to check rotation direction and pressure
7.2 Drilling Technique
Align the auger bit vertically over the marked drilling point
Engage auxiliary hydraulics to begin drilling
Apply steady downward pressure (let the auger pull itself in)
Drill in short pulses in tough soil to avoid stalling
Slowly reverse bit to extract debris and soil from the hole
Keep bystanders at least 10 ft away from the drilling zone
Never attempt to manually remove soil while auger is engaged
Do not use in excessively rocky terrain without a rock bit
Shut off hydraulics before changing bits or performing maintenance
9. Maintenance Schedule
Task
Frequency
Check hydraulic hoses for leaks
Daily
Inspect bit wear and tip condition
Every 8 hours of use
Grease pivot points and couplers
Every 10 hours
Clean and inspect hub connection
After each use
Check gearbox oil level (if applicable)
Weekly
Replace damaged bits or flighting
As needed
10. Selection Tips
Match your loader’s GPM to the auger drive spec Choose higher torque drives for hard soils or large-diameter bits Select the proper hub style (2″, 2.5″, hex or round) Consider bit extensions if deep holes are required Look for units with replaceable wear teeth for longevity
