Auger Drive Attachment (Skid Steer)

Eterra Skid Steer Auger Drive Attachment

Built for secure, reliable drilling in tough conditions, the Eterra Skid Steer Auger Drive is one of Eterra's most popular and highest-reviewed attachments. A planetary drive system prevents the shaft pullout problems common in other augers. A reinforced gearbox and large thrust plate keep the shaft locked in place and distribute weight evenly, handling heavy-duty drilling while minimizing stress on critical components. The result is consistent performance and a longer life for the attachment, even in the most demanding applications.

The drive comes standard with a 2" hex output shaft that's compatible with all Eterra auger bits and accessories, and adapters are available for round or larger hex options. For added versatility, the Flip Mount upgrade lets you switch between standard and inverted drilling in minutes. Its 180-degree rotation gives you extra flexibility in tight spaces and on angled applications. A locking collar keeps the auger steady when it's not in use, preventing swinging during transport and positioning.

The planetary gearbox is sealed and comes filled with gear oil, so it's ready to work and low maintenance. It's available in three sizes to match your skid steer's hydraulic flow and the bit sizes you need to run.

Key Features

• Planetary drive system: prevents the shaft pullout problems common in other augers
• Reinforced gearbox and large thrust plate: keeps the shaft locked in place and distributes weight evenly
• 2" hex output shaft: compatible with all Eterra auger bits and accessories, with adapters available for round or larger hex
• Flip Mount upgrade: switch between standard and inverted drilling in minutes with 180° rotation
• Locking collar: keeps the auger steady during transport and positioning
• Sealed, oil-filled gearbox: arrives filled with the correct amount of gear oil, with no need to check the level before first use
• Low maintenance: weekly greasing of the hitch and pivot pins plus periodic oil changes
• Three sizes: 2500, 3500, and 4500 models to match your machine's flow

Specifications

Model 2500 3500 4500 Flow Range 7–17 GPM 10–25 GPM 13–30 GPM Max Pressure 3,500 PSI 3,500 PSI 3,500 PSI Max Torque @ 3,500 PSI 2,100 ft-lbs 2,700 ft-lbs 3,350 ft-lbs Speed @ Max Flow 87 RPM 100 RPM 97 RPM Speed Range 36–87 RPM 40–100 RPM 42–97 RPM Recommended Bit Size 4–24" 4–36" 4–48" Output Shaft 2" Hex 2" Hex 2" Hex Weight (Drive Only) 135 lbs 140 lbs 140 lbs Gear Oil Capacity 0.85 pint 1.79 pints 1.79 pints

Maintenance at a Glance

• Run-in before first use: operate the motor at 30% of rated pressure for 20 minutes in each direction before applying full load.
• Weekly: grease the hitch and the drive's pivot pins.
• First oil change: after 3 months or 200 hours, whichever comes first.
• Then: every 12 months or 800 hours, whichever comes first.
• Oil type: AGMA 6EP mineral gear oil (Millers EP 320 / Mobil 600 Series). Units ship with Mobil Gear 600XP. Use ISO 150 viscosity oil below -15°C and ISO 460 above 35°C.
• Check teeth and pilot regularly: excessively worn teeth and pilots can damage the auger.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which model is right for my skid steer?
A: Match the model to your machine's auxiliary hydraulic flow and the bit sizes you plan to run. The 2500 runs on 7–17 GPM for bits from 4–24". The 3500 runs on 10–25 GPM for bits from 4–36". The 4500 runs on 13–30 GPM for bits from 4–48". Contact us if you're unsure.

Q: How much torque does each model produce?
A: At 3,500 PSI, the 2500 produces 2,100 ft-lbs, the 3500 produces 2,700 ft-lbs, and the 4500 produces 3,350 ft-lbs.

Q: Will it work with my auger bits?
A: The 2" hex output shaft is compatible with all Eterra auger bits and accessories. Adapters are available for round or larger hex bits.

Q: What is the Flip Mount upgrade?
A: It lets you rotate the auger 180° to switch between standard and inverted drilling in minutes, which is useful in tight spaces and on angled applications.

Q: What makes the planetary drive better?
A: The planetary drive, reinforced gearbox, and large thrust plate keep the shaft locked in place. That prevents the shaft pullout problems common in other augers and spreads the load to reduce stress on critical components.

Q: Does it need oil before first use?
A: No. It comes filled with the correct amount of gear oil, so there's no need to check the level. You should complete the run-in procedure before first use: 20 minutes in each direction at 30% of rated pressure.

Q: How often does the gear oil need changing?
A: The first change is due after 3 months or 200 hours, then every 12 months or 800 hours, whichever comes first. To maintain your warranty, keep a record of each oil change.

Q: Is there a mini skid steer version?
A: Yes. Eterra makes the ML-2500 and ML-3500 auger drives for mini skid steers, and also offers auger drives for excavators.

Q: Where can I find the spec sheet and manual?
A: Download the auger drive spec sheet (PDF) or download the auger drive operator's manual (PDF).