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Guide to Bobcat Augers Attachments & Implements
When precision matters and productivity drives the day, Bobcat® auger attachments and implements deliver. Whether you're drilling post holes for fencing, planting trees in a landscaped park, or boring through asphalt for utility access, the right auger model makes all the difference. This guide explores everything you need to know about augers, from how they work and what they’re made of, to the full lineup of Bobcat® auger models and their real-world applications. With insights into auger bits, soil compatibility, and hydraulic performance, this article equips you to choose the right auger attachment or implement for every jobsite challenge.
What is an Auger?
An auger is a mechanical tool designed to drill precise, cylindrical holes into the ground. Its defining feature is a spiral-shaped shaft (often referred to as a flighting) that rotates to displace soil upward and out of the hole. This continuous movement allows for efficient excavation with minimal disruption to the surrounding area.
Augers are used across a wide range of industries where ground penetration is required. The design of an auger enables consistent hole depth and diameter, making it ideal for tasks such as:
- Installing structural supports (e.g., fence posts, signposts, footings)
- Planting trees and shrubs with uniform root ball cavities
- Sampling soil for agricultural or environmental analysis
- Accessing underground utilities for maintenance or installation
The auger’s effectiveness depends on its configuration (bit type, diameter, and drive system) all of which can be tailored to match specific soil conditions and jobsite requirements.
What is an Auger Attachment?
An auger attachment is a hydraulically powered attachment that connects to the front of compact equipment such as skid-steer loaders, compact track loaders, compact (mini) excavators and more. When paired with a host machine, the auger attachment transforms it into a high-performance drilling system capable of handling a wide range of ground conditions, from loose topsoil to dense clay and even asphalt.
Bobcat auger attachments are engineered for durability and precision. They feature:
- Planetary Gear Drives -- That deliver consistent torque for demanding applications
- Multiple Output Configurations (available in hex and round) -- To accommodate different bit types:
- Hex – 2" and 2.5”
- Round – 2.5”
- Combination – 2" Hex and 2.5” Round
- Quick-Change Mounting Systems -- For fast transitions between tasks to maximize productivity on the jobsite.
These attachments are not just add-ons—they’re productivity multipliers. Whether you're building a fence line across a rocky pasture, installing footings for a deck, or planting trees in a landscaped park, the auger attachment ensures consistent performance and clean results.
What Is An Auger Implement?
An auger implement is a rear-mounted drilling tool designed for use with tractors, like sub-compact, compact and utility tractors, and rear-compatible utility machines, such as the Bobcat UW53 Toolcat ®. Unlike front-mounted auger attachments, auger implements connect to the three-point hitch or rear hydraulic system, allowing operators to drill holes while driving in reverse or stationary.
Auger implements are commonly used in:
- Agricultural settings: For fencing, pole barns, planting and more
- Rural construction: For signposts, foundational footings and more
- Land management: For tree planting, erosion control, soil sampling and more
Bobcat auger implements are built to handle a variety of soil conditions and are compatible with a range of bit sizes. They offer:
- Robust gearboxes for consistent torque
- Heavy-duty frames for long-term durability
- Adaptable mounting options for compatibility with different tractors and utility vehicles
These implements are ideal for operators who prefer rear-mounted tools or need to maintain front loader functionality while drilling. They’re especially useful in open-field environments where maneuverability and rear access are advantageous.
How Do Augers Work?
How Do Augers Work?
Augers operate via hydraulic power from the host machine. As the motor turns the shaft, the spiral bit penetrates the ground, channeling material upward. The planetary gear system in Bobcat augers ensures consistent torque delivery, even underload.
Powered augers operate through a combination of hydraulic force, mechanical gearing, and rotational motion to bore clean, cylindrical holes into the ground. When mounted to a compact machine—such as a skid-steer loader, compact track loader, or excavator—the auger becomes a high-performance drilling system capable of handling a wide range of soil conditions.
Hydraulic Power Transfer
The process begins when the operator engages the machine’s auxiliary hydraulics. Hydraulic fluid is pumped through high-pressure hoses into the auger’s drive motor. This fluid power is what initiates rotation and drives the entire system.
- Hydraulic flow rate and pressure determine the speed and torque output.
- Flat-faced couplers ensure clean, leak-free connections between the machine and the auger.
Drive Motor Activation
The hydraulic motor converts fluid pressure into rotational energy. This motor is housed within the auger’s drive unit and is responsible for turning the output shaft.
- Planetary gear systems inside the motor multiply torque while maintaining manageable speed.
- Reverse rotation is available to help clear jams or back out of holes.
Output Shaft Rotation
The motor turns the output shaft, which connects directly to the auger bit. Bobcat augers use either:
- Hex shafts for high-torque applications and secure bit engagement
- Round shafts for high-speed, low-torque tasks in softer soil
The shaft’s rotation drives the auger bit into the ground.
Bit Engagement and Material Displacement
As the auger bit rotates, its spiral flighting cuts into the earth and channels material upward. This continuous movement lifts soil out of the hole, creating a clean bore with minimal disruption to surrounding terrain.
- Carbide teeth or bullet-style tips may be used for rocky or compacted soil.
- Tree bits feature wider profiles and stepped auger flights to create a "pocket" for root ball placement.
Depth Control and Alignment
Operators control depth and alignment using the host machine’s boom or lift arms. Some auger mounts include a swing bracket, allowing the bit to hang vertically even on uneven terrain.
- Bit extensions can be added to increase drilling depth.
- Mounting frames ensure stability and proper positioning during operation.
Clearing and Resetting
Once the desired depth is reached, the auger can be removed to clear debris or disengage from obstructions. The bit is then lifted out of the hole, and the auger can be reversed to clear flights outside the hole at a desired location, leaving a clean, uniform cavity ready for installation or planting.
Auger Uses & Applications
Bobcat auger attachments are engineered for precision and performance across a wide spectrum of industries. Their versatility makes them indispensable for professionals who demand consistent results in challenging environments. Below is a detailed breakdown of how Bobcat augers are used across various sectors, with examples tied to specific model capabilities.
CONSTRUCTION
CONSTRUCTION
Bobcat augers streamline foundational work and structural installations:
- Footings for decks, porches, and small buildings: Models like the 20PH and 25PH or 20PC and 25 PC, are ideal for medium-depth holes in compacted soil.
- Fence post installation: The 12PH and 14PH models excel in loose soil, while the 30PH and 35PH handle deeper holes in tougher terrain.
- Signage and bollard placement: Use the 15H or 20PC for municipal signs, parking lot barriers, and commercial signage.
- Utility installation: utility poles, screw pilings, pipe laying use the 25PH or 30PH.
LANDSCAPING
LANDSCAPING
Augers simplify planting and irrigation tasks:
- Tree and shrub planting: Tree auger bits paired with 20PC, 20PH, 25PC, 25PH, 30PH, 35PH, or 50PH models allow for quick, clean root ball holes.
- Irrigation system installation: Use the 12PC, 12PH, 14PC, 14PH, 20PC, 20PH, 25PC, 25PH, 30PH, 35PH or 50PH models for shallow trenching and pipe access points.
- Retaining wall prep: The 12PC, 12PH, 14PC, 14PH, 20PC, 20PH, 25PC, 25PH, 30PH, 35PH or 50PH models can dig anchor holes in rocky or clay-heavy soil
- Landscape lighting and feature installation: Augers help install posts for lighting, pergolas, and decorative fencing.
AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURE
Bobcat augers support farm infrastructure and soil management:
- Pole barn construction: The 25PH and 30PH models are ideal for deep post holes in mixed soil conditions.
- Fencing for livestock enclosures: Use 12PC, 12PH, 14PC, 14PH, 20PC, 20PH, 25PC, 25PH or 30PH for consistent post spacing and depth.
- Soil sampling and testing: Smaller bits on the 12PH or 12PC models allow for quick sampling in various soil types.
- Planting orchard trees: Tree auger bits with 14PH, 14PC, 20PH, 20PC, 25PH, 25PC or 30PH models ensure uniform hole depth and spacing.
UTILITIES
UTILITIES
Utility crews rely on augers for infrastructure access and installation:
- Utility pole installation: The 30PH, 35PH, and 50PH models are built for deep, wide holes in dense or frozen ground.
- Anchor and guy wire placement: Use 20PH or 25PH for medium-depth anchor points in rocky soil.
- Solar panel mounting systems: Augers help install ground-mounted solar arrays with consistent spacing and depth.
Municipal & Public Works
Bobcat augers support city and county operations:
- Traffic sign and signal post installation: Use all available auger models for efficient drilling in urban environments.
- Park and recreation infrastructure: Augers assist in installing benches, playground equipment, and trail markers.
- Stormwater management systems: Digging for retention basin posts or erosion control structures is simplified with all available auger models.
Oil, Gas & Energy
In energy sectors, augers are used for structural and exploratory tasks:
- Pipeline anchor installation: High-torque models like 35PH and 50PH are suited for drilling in asphalt or frost.
- Geotechnical exploration: Augers paired with sampling bits allow for subsurface analysis.
- Pipeline marker installation: Augers are used to drill precise holes for installing pipeline markers and signage along routes, ensuring visibility and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Disaster Response & Recovery
Augers play a role in emergency infrastructure restoration:
- Temporary fencing and signage: Quick deployment using 12PH or 14PH models.
- Utility restoration: Digging for pole replacement or conduit access with 25PH or 30PH.
- Debris anchoring systems: Augers assist in stabilizing temporary structures or barriers.
Powered Auger Components
A powered auger is a hydraulically driven implement designed to bore holes into the ground with precision and consistency. When mounted to a compact machine like a skid-steer loader or compact track loader, the powered auger becomes a high-performance drilling system. Below is a breakdown of its core components and their functions:
Hydraulic Drive Motor
What It Is: The heart of the powered auger, this motor converts hydraulic flow from the host machine into rotational energy.
What It Does:
- Powers the auger bit to rotate and penetrate the ground
- Determines torque and speed output based on model type
- Enables reverse rotation to clear obstructions or back out of holes
Why It Matters: The motor’s configuration directly impacts performance in different soil conditions—from loose topsoil to dense clay or asphalt.
Planetary Gearbox
What It Is: A compact gear system housed within the drive unit.
What It Does:
- Multiplies torque while maintaining manageable speed
- Ensures consistent power delivery under load
Why It Matters: Planetary gearboxes are essential for heavy-duty applications, allowing the auger to maintain performance in tough digging environments.
Output Shaft (Hex, Round and Combination)
What It Is: The connection point between the drive unit and the auger bit.
What It Does:
Transfers rotational force from the motor to the bit
- Hex shafts provide superior grip and torque transfer
- Round shafts offer easier alignment and are suited for lighter-duty tasks
- Combination shafts have both hex and round configurations to accommodate 2” hex and 2.5” round bits.
Why It Matters: Choosing the correct shaft type ensures secure bit engagement and optimal torque delivery.
Auger Bit
What It Is: The cutting tool that bores into the ground.
What It Does:
- Drills into the earth, lifting material out of the hole
- Comes in various diameters and tooth configurations
- Can be swapped based on soil type and application (e.g., rock bits, tree bits, standard earth bits)
Why It Matters: The bit determines the hole’s diameter, depth, and cutting efficiency. Matching the bit to the jobsite conditions is key to clean, productive drilling.
Mounting Frame / Bracket
What It Is: The structural component that connects the auger to the host machine.
What It Does:
- Secures the drive unit to the loader or excavator
- May include a swing mount for vertical alignment on uneven terrain
- Designed for quick attachment and detachment
Why It Matters: A stable mounting system ensures accurate hole placement and reduces operator fatigue.
Hydraulic Hoses & Couplers
What They Are: Flexible lines and connectors that deliver hydraulic fluid from the machine to the motor.
What They Do:
- Enable fluid power transfer to activate the auger
- Feature flat-faced couplers to minimize leaks and contamination
- Include protective sleeving to protect oil spray in the event of hose rupture
Why They Matter: Reliable hydraulic connections are essential for consistent performance and long-term durability.
Bit Extensions (Optional)
What They Are: Add-on shafts that increase the depth capacity of the auger.
What They Do:
- Allow deeper hole drilling without changing the base model
- Available in various lengths and compatible with hex or round shafts
- Maintain structural integrity under load
Why They Matter: Extensions provide flexibility for deeper applications such as utility poles, industrial fencing, road signage and more.
BOBCAT AUGER ATTACHMENT MODELS
Bobcat’s auger lineup is engineered to match a wide range of soil conditions, machine sizes, and jobsite demands. Each model is optimized for a specific torque-speed ratio, which directly influences its performance in different ground types and applications.
Model 12PC / Model 12PH
Type: Planetary Drive – Round, Hex (PC) / Hex (PH)
Shaft Diameters: 2” Hex and 2.5” Round
Torque-Speed: Low torque, high speed
Bit Recommendation: Up to 24 in. diameter
Applications:
- Drilling holes for deck footings in loose soil
- Setting posts for agricultural fencing
- Installing irrigation systems in sandy terrain
Ideal For: Landscapers and contractors working in areas with minimal soil resistance.
Model 14PC / Model 14PH
Type: Planetary Drive – Round (PC) / Hex (PH)
Torque-Speed: Low to moderate torque, high speed (slightly more powerful than 12-series)
Bit Capacity: Up to 24 in. diameter
Applications:
- Digging for shallow footings in loose soil
- Planting trees or shrubs in landscaped areas
- Installing signposts in municipal projects
Ideal For: Users needing a bit more punch than the 12-series, but still working in relatively forgiving soil.
Model 20PC / Model 20PH
Type: Planetary Drive – Round (PC) / Hex (PH)
Torque-Speed: Medium torque, medium speed
Bit Capacity: Up to 36 in. diameter
Applications:
- Digging through rocky soil for retaining wall footings
- Installing large-diameter posts for commercial fencing
- Anchoring structures in moderately compacted ground
Ideal For: Jobs requiring consistent performance in tougher soil, including gravel and mixed terrain.
Model 25PH / Model 25PC
Type: Planetary Drive – Hex (PH) / Combination (PC)
Torque-Speed: Medium-high torque, medium-low speed
Bit Capacity: Up to 36 in. diameter
Applications:
- Drilling for utility pole installation or industrial fencing
- Penetrating root-laden soil for tree planting
- Excavating for pole barns or large sign foundations
Ideal For: Contractors working in areas with occasional tough digging, including root systems and compacted clay.
Model 30H / Model 30PH
Type: Hex (H), Planetary Hex (PH)
Torque-Speed: High torque, low speed
Applications:
- Breaking through hardpan or frost layers
- Digging in asphalt for utility access
- Excavating for commercial fencing and signage
Ideal For: Heavy-duty construction and utility crews needing reliable performance in unforgiving ground.
Model 35PH / Model 50PH
Type: Planetary Drive – 2.5” Hex (PH)
Torque-Speed: Maximum torque, low speed
Applications:
- Continuous drilling in asphalt, frozen ground, or dense clay
- Large-diameter hole creation for industrial applications
- Industrial fencing (large gate post installation) or road signage
Ideal For: All-day digging in extreme conditions. These models are built for endurance and power.
What Do “PH”, and “PC” Mean on the Auger Model Names?
Bobcat auger models are categorized by their drive type, which determines how torque is delivered to the auger bit and how the attachment performs under different soil conditions. Understanding these designations is key to selecting the right model for your jobsite needs.
- Planetary Hex (PH): Provides a full range of torque and speed options, allowing for both high torque and low torque as well as high speed and low speed operation.
- Planetary Combination (PC): By incorporating both hex and round features on the output shaft, this engineered design delivers versatile performance with both high and low speeds, along with high and low torque capabilities, plus making it suitable for a variety of diverse digging tasks and operations.
Planetary Hex (PH) and Planetary Combination (PC) have the models to match your specific needs.
PH - Planetary Drive
Hex Output
“PH” models combine a planetary gear system with a hex output shaft. This configuration delivers high torque at low speed, making it ideal for demanding ground conditions with the same performance throughout the available auger models.
Characteristics:
- Maximum torque for tough digging
- Low-speed operation for controlled penetration
- Hex output for secure bit engagement
Use Cases:
- Boring through hardpan, frost, or asphalt
- Drilling for utility pole installation, road signage and more
- All-day digging in high-resistance environments
Example Models: 12PH, 14PH, 20PH, 25PH, 30PH, 35PH, 50PH
PC – Planetary Combination
Hex and Round Output
“PC” models use the same planetary drive system as PH models but feature a combination output shaft with both hex and round interfaces. This allows the auger to accept both 2" hex and 2.5" round auger bits, offering added versatility without changing performance.
Like PH models, torque and speed options are determined by the auger model, with identical performance between equivalent PH and PC models. The only difference between PH and PC is the output shaft configuration.
Characteristics:
- Maximum torque for tough digging
- Lower torque for loose or sandy soil
- Hex output for secure bit engagement
Use Cases:
- Rapid post hole drilling in loose topsoil
- Tree planting in landscaped environments
- Installing irrigation systems in sandy terrain
Example Models: 12PC, 14PC, 20PC, 25PC
Compatible Versatility
Bobcat augers are engineered for broad compatibility, offering versatile operation across a diverse range of equipment. The 20PH and 20PC Augers, for instance, can be used seamlessly with any Bobcat excavator from the E35 to the E60 models, as well as with Bobcat skid-steer and compact track loaders ranging from the S64-2/T64-2 up to the S86-2/T86-2. This cross-platform compatibility means operators can tackle a variety of projects without worrying about matching specific auger models to individual machines.
Whether attached to compact excavators or larger skid-steer and track loaders, Bobcat augers adapt easily for different tasks and environments. This flexibility not only maximizes equipment utilization but also streamlines workflows for crews managing multiple machine types on a job site.
Compact Track Loaders
Skid-Steer Loaders
Compact (Mini) Excavators
Auger Bits
Auger bits are the cutting components of a powered auger system. They are the tools that physically engage with the ground, determining the diameter, depth, and efficiency of the hole being drilled. Bobcat auger bits are engineered for durability, precision, and compatibility with a wide range of soil conditions and applications.
Each bit is designed with specific flighting geometry, tooth configuration, and material reinforcement to match the demands of the jobsite. Choosing the right auger bit is critical to achieving consistent results and maximizing the performance of your Bobcat auger attachment.
Standard Earth Bits
Purpose: General-purpose digging in soft to moderately compacted soil.
Features:
- Single or double flighting for efficient soil removal
- Replaceable teeth for extended service life
- Available in a wide range of diameters (typically 6" to 36")
Applications:
- Fence post installation in loamy or sandy soil
- Tree planting in landscaped areas
- Footings for decks, signs, and small structures
Compatible Models: 12PC, 14PC, 15C, 20PC
Heavy-Duty Bits
Purpose: Digging in challenging soil conditions such as rocky, compacted, or root-laden terrain.
Features:
- Reinforced flighting and thicker steel construction
- Carbide-tipped teeth for cutting through rock and dense material
- Aggressive pilot points for better ground penetration
Applications:
- Excavating in gravel, clay, or mixed soil
- Utility pole installation in rural or undeveloped areas
- Structural pier drilling in compacted ground
Compatible Models:
- PH Models: 20PH, 25PH, 30PH, 35PH, 50PH
- PC Models: 12PC, 14PC, 20PC, 25PC
Tree Bits
Purpose: Specialized for landscaping and horticultural applications.
Features:
- Tapered design to accommodate root balls
- Wider base for planting trees and shrubs
- Smooth flighting for minimal soil disruption
Applications:
- Planting ornamental trees in parks or residential developments
- Installing root barriers or irrigation systems
- Creating uniform holes for nursery operations
Compatible Models:
- PH Models: 20PH, 25PH, 30PH, 35PH, 50PH
- PC Models: 20PC, 25PC
Rock Bits
Purpose: Extreme digging conditions where standard or heavy-duty bits may struggle.
Features:
- Bullet-style carbide teeth for fracturing rock
- Hardened pilot points for aggressive entry
- Optional wear plates for extended durability
Applications:
- Boring through asphalt, frost, or hardpan
- Geotechnical exploration and sampling
- Industrial anchor installation
Compatible Models: 30PH, 35PH, 50PH
Mounting Frame / Bracket
What It Is: The structural component that connects the auger to the host machine.
What It Does:
- Secures the drive unit to the loader or excavator
- May include a swing mount for vertical alignment on uneven terrain
- Designed for quick attachment and detachment
Why It Matters: A stable mounting system ensures accurate hole placement and reduces operator fatigue.
Bit Extensions
Purpose: Increase the depth capacity of any auger bit.
Features:
- Available in various lengths (typically 12" to 48")
- Compatible with hex or round output shafts
- Heavy-duty steel construction
Applications:
- Drilling for industrial fencing and road signage.
- Utility installations requiring extended reach
- Agricultural fencing in uneven terrain
Find The Right Attachment for Your Job Today
Auger Bit Sizes
Bobcat augers are engineered for broad compatibility, offering Bobcat augers support a wide range of bit sizes and diameters; each recommended to specific auger models and digging conditions. Choosing the correct bit size is essential for achieving consistent hole depth, clean edges, and efficient material displacement.
Use the guide below to match bit sizes to auger families and typical applications.
Bit Sizes Offered
- 6-36 Inch Bits: For 12-30 PH/PC.
- 8-48 Inch Bits: For 35PH & 50PH.
Recommended Pairings (Average Conditions)
- 12PH/PC: 6–18 in
- 14–30 PH/PC: 6–36 in
- 35PH & 50PH: 8–48 in
Note: Recommendations are guidelines based on average digging conditions. Actual selection may vary by soil composition, hole depth, bit style, and machine configuration. For project specific guidance, contact your local Bobcat Dealer.
Small Diameter Bits
Size Range: 6 in. to 12 in.
Compatible Models:
- Model 12PC / 12PH
- Model 14PC / 14PH
Application Examples:
- Fence posts for residential or agricultural use
- Mailbox installations
- Tree planting in landscaped areas
- Soil sampling
Medium Diameter Bits
Size Range: 18 in. to 24 in.
Compatible Models:
- Model 20PC / 20PH
- Model 25PH / 25PC
Application Examples:
- Deck footings
- Signpost installations
- Root ball cavities for larger trees
Large Diameter Bits
Size Range: 30 in. to 36 in.
Compatible Models:
- Model 30PH
- Model 35PH
- Model 50PH
Application Examples:
- Utility pole installation
- Excavation through hardpan, frost, or asphalt
(Small Diameter)
(Medium Diameter)
(Large Diameter)
Augers Guide Conclusion
Bobcat augers demonstrate versatility and reliability across a broad range of applications, from energy infrastructure and disaster response to routine construction and landscaping.
Their adaptability to varying soil conditions, compatibility with multiple machine types, and specialized features like reverse functionality and heavy-duty bits make them indispensable tools for professionals. Whether the task involves anchoring pipelines, prepping turbine bases, restoring utilities, or digging through tough soil, there’s an auger model suited for the job.
Understanding the different drive systems and bit options ensures users can maximize efficiency and performance, making Bobcat augers a trusted solution for both everyday and specialized digging needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Do Augers Have Reverse?
Yes. Bobcat augers feature reverse functionality to help back out of holes after dug or to clear jams while digging.
Can Augers Go Through Roots?
Do Augers Work in Rocky Soil?
WHY BOBCAT ATTACHMENTS
Built for
Durability
Engineered with the highest quality standards and guaranteed to work with compatible equipment.
Local Dealer Support
Authorized local dealers provide trusted advice, parts, service, and support.
Peace of Mind
Standard two-year warranty for hydraulic attachments, plus available extended warranty for select attachments.
Best Value
Competitive attachment pricing, plus available 0% financing and other limited-time special offers.