Tractor Post Hole Digger FAQs Answered: Depth, Auger Size, Soil Types & Maintenance

Here’s a comprehensive FAQ guide on tractor-mounted Post Hole Digger (PHD) by Ashok Metal Works, answering the most common questions about post hole diggers and pole erectors.

⚙️ What Size Hole Does a Post Hole Digger Make?

Ashok Metal Works tractor-mounted diggers can drill holes ranging from 8-inch to 24-inch diameter and 1.5 ft to 10 ft deep (with optional extensions).This makes them suitable for a variety of field and infrastructure applications:

• Standard auger sizes: 8", 12", 16", 18"

• Extended options: Up to 24" diameter or 10 ft depth for pole erection or plantation pits

• Depth control: Hydraulic lifting system allows fine adjustment via tractor controls

Note: Depth beyond 6 ft is achieved using auger extensions or special-length models.

🌱 Can a Post Hole Digger Be Used for Planting Trees?

✅ Yes.Post hole diggers are highly effective for tree plantation, horticulture, and orchard projects.They create uniform, consistent pits that make root placement and watering easier, ensuring healthier tree establishment.

For most plantations:

• Use 16–18 inch augers for fruit and shade trees

• Maintain 2–6 ft depth depending on soil type and tree species

  
  

🌾 Can a Tractor-Mounted PHD Dig Through Roots or Stones?

• Roots: It can handle small roots but large, woody roots should be cleared manually to prevent damage.

• Stones: The auger can operate efficiently in soils with small or medium stones, which are expelled naturally.However, large rocks or solid strata must be loosened or removed before drilling.

Tip: Maintain steady torque instead of forcing the auger downward to ensure smooth digging and avoid gearbox stress.

⛰️Can It Work in Murram or Rocky Soil?

✅ Yes — suitable for light to moderate rocky and murram soils.AMW post hole diggers work efficiently in mixed terrain using standard auger blades.For denser layers, reduce feed rate and increase auger RPM to minimize vibration.

Avoid using standard augers on hard rock; use only after manual loosening or excavation.

⚡ What Size of Auger Should Electrical Contractors Use?

For electrification and government utility projects, AMW customers in the contracting segment prefer:

• Auger Diameter: 16 inch

• Auger Length: 7 ft (to ensure clearance and mounting reach)

• Typical Hole Depth: 1.5–1.8 ft for pole foundations

This configuration meets most Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) and State Electricity Board foundation requirements for 11 kV and LT poles.

🧰 How to Maintain a Tractor Post Hole Digger?

A few simple maintenance practices can extend your digger’s life for years:

• Clean auger blades after each use to prevent corrosion and soil hardening.

• Grease all joints and moving shafts regularly.

• Inspect gearbox oil or check if your model has a sealed unit.

• Monitor hydraulic hoses for leaks or wear.

• Store vertically under shade to prevent bending or rusting.

Routine checks ensure consistent performance and reduce unexpected downtime.

📋 Quick Reference: Hole Sizes & Applications

Application	Recommended Auger Diameter	Typical Depth	Tractor HP Range
Fencing / Farm Use	8–12 in	2–4 ft	35–50 HP
Tree Plantation	12–18 in	2–6 ft	45–60 HP
Pole Erection / Electrification	16–24 in	5–10 ft*	50–75 HP

Depth beyond 6 ft requires an auger extension or specialty setup.

🏁 Final Takeaway

For most Indian applications, a tractor-mounted post hole digger provides unmatched efficiency and flexibility — whether you’re working on farmland, roadside electrification, or plantation projects.Ashok Metal Works’ PHD attachments are engineered for Indian soil conditions, delivering long-term reliability, low maintenance, and consistent performance.

🔗 Explore More from Ashok Metal Works

👉 Tractor Post Hole Digger & Pole Erector Attachments Built for durability and precision, these attachments are trusted by contractors and farmers across India for efficient drilling and pole erection.

📞 +91 94251 49002

🌐 www.ashokmetalworks.com

📍 Jatrapura, behind Ram Leela Maidan, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh 464001

🇮🇳 Proudly Made in Bharat