Types, Troubleshooting & More: Your Go-To Guide for Auger Teeth

An auger is a very handy tool that can save you loads of time on drilling and digging projects. To get maximum use out of your auger, it is important to have the correct auger teeth and wear parts that complement your equipment and the nature of the job. Thankfully, our detailed guide on auger teeth, right from the general know-how to choosing what’s right for you, will make sure you’re on the right track.

What’s the Point of Auger Teeth?

When it comes to augers, the most commonly overlooked component of the tool is its teeth and wear parts. For an auger to perform at its best, it needs to be fitted with the correct teeth. This is because the teeth are what come in contact with the drilling or digging surface most frequently. The ease at which the auger drills through the surface material depends upon the kind of teeth you use.

Discover the Types of Auger Teeth Available

Auger teeth come in a variety of shapes and sizes; all suited to different augers and digging conditions. Chisel teeth have more pointed, angular tips and work best when digging in hard rock and other rough surfaces. Tiger teeth penetrate the ground more effectively, due to the two prong shape, however wear quicker than the flat chisel teeth.

The finish of the auger tooth is another key part of the design which determines how effective it will be on the digging surface. For instance, digga’s range for auger teeth offers three types of finishes, including standard, flat tungsten and multi-faced tungsten which is typically used for tougher ground conditions.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Auger Teeth

Auger teeth are important investments that can increase digging and drilling efficiency tenfold. For this reason, it is important to know how to get the maximum use and longevity out of them. To ensure that you get your money’s worth, you must always remember to:

Choose the Right Teeth for the Job

Choosing the wrong type of teeth for your auger or bucket can have several repercussions. Not only will it slow down the process, but it can also cost you more money in the long run. For example, using a flat auger tooth on hard rock surfaces will not be as effective as a chisel tooth. In extreme cases, it is possible that your auger might undergo significant strain and will ultimately sustain heavy damage. This can cost you more money in terms of replacement and repair charges. The best way to avoid all these complications is to select the right type of tooth according to the job you are doing.

Always choose the desired tooth configuration according to the ground conditions you are working with. As a general guide, Digga’s S range of auger teeth work best for jobs that require drilling into earth, clay and shale. The TM range can be used for the same types of drill jobs. The TT combination works best for drilling into soft earth and clay, as well as ripping into fracturable rock. Digga’s rock picks are another great alternative for shale, fracturable rock, concrete and abrasive conditions.

Once you have selected the teeth, choose the correct pilot in accordance with the type of pilot driver, such as a drive lug or socket.

Carry Out Regular Maintenance

As with any piece of equipment, proper care and maintenance will ensure it has a long life. Always use the right teeth for the job and make sure to regularly clean your auger teeth. The dust, dirt and other debris that collects on the machine can eventually increase the rate of wear and tear.

Safe storage is also crucial. Do not ever leave the auger out in the open as the teeth and equipment can get damaged by rain and other harsh weather conditions. When not in use, make sure to safely store your auger teeth in a safe, dry place.

Make sure to also check the teeth regularly for damage. Before and after each job, check the alignment of teeth as this is what determines the performance and productivity of the machine. Since looseness is what usually causes misalignment, check the fastening of the auger teeth and make adjustments as necessary.

You must also ensure to regularly check the pilot. A worn pilot will not effectively penetrate the ground, rendering the entire auger useless. When you begin to notice wear and tear on the pilot tips, replace it immediately.

Replace Damaged Teeth

At some point, you will be required to replace your auger tooth. Prolonged usage can lead to damage over time. Therefore, it is always recommended to replace the teeth when you start to notice small signs of wear and tear. This is because the longer you go without replacing the teeth, the more likely your machine will sustain heavy damage in the long run. Regular tooth replacement can save you money, in the long run and is quite easy when you have the correct tools and components.

Troubleshooting Tricks for Teeth

There will be instances where you may run into some performance issues with your auger teeth. These issues may interfere with the productivity of the auger, as well as the progress of your job. Knowing how to troubleshoot these issues can help you if you are ever in a fix. Below are some of the main issues you can encounter with auger teeth and how to deal with them.

Damage of Outer Teeth

Usually, the outside teeth of the auger travel the longest distance since they follow the rotation of the circumference of the auger. Due to this, they are prone to wearing out much quicker than the inner teeth, which is why they need to be replaced more often. Conduct regular maintenance checks to determine when the outer teeth need to be replaced. On the off chance that you are in a remote location where immediate replacement is not possible, try temporarily switching out the inner teeth which are closest to the pilot. This quick fix can help you get the job done for the time being until you are able to get alternatives.

Can an Auger Tooth Get Stuck?

Yes, an auger tooth can very well get embedded in the ground while you are digging. It is one of the most common issues users face, apart from damage or wear and tear to the auger teeth. Sometimes when drilling, digging, cutting or scraping, an auger can come into contact with a hard surface such as concrete, stone or metal. As the auger rotates, the hard material can get caught on the teeth and prevent the auger from turning.

An auger usually gets stuck for one of two reasons. The first is due to excessive torque, which occurs when too much force is applied to the auger while rotating. This can cause damage to the auger, holding it in place and sometimes causing the teeth to break off. The second reason is due to heavy accumulation of dirt and debris around the teeth which prevents it from moving.

To remove a stuck auger:

• First, remember to back up to safety in order to avoid any possible accidents.
• Next, clean debris off the teeth using a shovel or a long-handled blade. Do not cut too deeply to avoid damage to the teeth.
• Once cleaned, unscrew the auger head. It should come off without any need to apply extra pressure. However, you can use a screwdriver to loosen the bolts if they are too tight.
• Pull out the auger slowly and steadily and avoid jerking. After it is pulled free, inspect the area of the ground to ensure no damage occurred during removal.

Shop Auger Teeth at Bunyip Equipment

At Bunyip Equipment, we provide only the finest quality products to all our customers. We stock teeth to suit a wide range of auger products, such as Auger Torque and Digga. We value customer experience and satisfaction above all else. This is why we offer the best prices available in the market, with all our stock manufactured in accordance with Australian standards. For all your auger teeth needs, browse our range online today!