Another Post Hole digger question?

[TxBillyed]

See my posting below. I just got a post digger from Tractor Supply. (TractorSupply.com) This last weekend I dug 21 holes in some very tough ground. Get down about 6-8 inches and I was into rock. The unit performed great. When we got to soft soil it went right down without trouble. One thing I did notice was that the bolts on the gear unit need to be check as they do come loose. All and all I was very happy with the unit. /w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif I have a 4100 John Deere.

Bill

 

[jimgerken]

I have a 4100 also, and borrowed a TSC speeco head and 12" auger. I was apprehensive about the smallness of the tractor, lifting the auger off the ground and still having reach to get deep enough, etc. The last time i had used this auger it was on a full-size tractor. Well, the results on the 4100 are fantastic. Just enough power, plenty of 3-pt movement range for lifting off the ground 6" and can still bury the u-joint in the dirt if desired, etc. I guess the only minor drawback is the 3-pt lift capacity could be higher. It is possible to get it stuck in the wet clay if you let the auger get buried before withdrawing and cleaning. The pipewrench idea mentioned earlier works well for back-turning, but I have found it is necessary to remove the PTO shaft from the tractor first or the PTO brake stops it. Another great thing about the posthole auger on the 4100 is the maneuverabilty is fantastic with this little tractor.