used bobcat auger for sale
Used Bobcat Auger for Sale: A Smart Investment for Compact Excavation
If you’re searching for a used Bobcat auger for sale, chances are you need dependable digging power without the premium price of new equipment. A well-maintained Bobcat auger can drill clean, precise holes for fence posts, decks, footings, and tree planting, making it a versatile attachment for landscaping, contracting, or agricultural jobs. Buying used keeps your upfront costs down while still delivering the durability Bobcat is known for.
Why Choose a Used Bobcat Auger?
- Proven performance: Bobcat augers are engineered to tolerate tough soil conditions. Even after previous service, the core structural components—flights, teeth, and mount—remain rugged. A used unit can still deliver the torque and penetration depth your projects demand.
- Cost efficiency: New augers often cost several thousand dollars. Opting for a used model lets you allocate budget to other priorities (like transporting materials or hiring labor) while still equipping your skid steer or mini excavator with a reliable tool.
- Immediate availability: New attachments may have lead times. Buying used often means same-day pick-up or quick shipping, so you can start digging immediately.
What to Look for When Buying
- Frame and mounting condition: Ensure the mounting bracket isn’t warped, cracked, or excessively worn. Check for straight, tight pins and verify that the attachment plate fits securely to your carrier.
- Auger flighting and teeth: Inspect the helix for bends, cracks, or excessive wear. Replaceable teeth should still be sharp or easily serviceable—Bobcat models use standard teeth sizes, so new bits are easy to source.
- Drive unit health: The gearbox should not leak fluids. Rotate the auger by hand (with the hydraulic system depressurized) to confirm smooth movement. Listen for grinding noises that could indicate bearing wear.
- Hydraulic hose integrity: Look for cuts, bulging, or outdated hoses. If you have the capability, test the attachment while running hydraulics to check for consistent rotation speed and torque.
Evaluating Value
When evaluating price, consider how much use the auger still has in it. An auger with a freshly replaced pilot bit or refurbished gearbox can compete with newer lower-tier models. Ask for maintenance records, verify the serial number against Bobcat’s database if needed, and compare with similar listings to ensure you’re paying a fair rate. Factor in any needed repairs when calculating your total investment.
Tips to Maximize Longevity
- Clean the attachment after each job to prevent soil and moisture from accelerating wear.
- Store indoors or under cover to limit rust.
- Swap out pilot bits and teeth regularly, especially when working in clay, gravel, or rockier soils. Quick changes preserve the flighting and maintain cutting accuracy.
- Use a torque limiter if your carrier supports it, reducing stress on the gearbox during sudden bind-ups.
Selling or Upgrading?
If you’re selling a used Bobcat auger, highlight its service history, compatible carrier models, and any parts you recently refreshed. If you’re upgrading, note that Bobcat offers several flighting and gauge options—choose the size that matches your most frequent digging tasks.
By targeting specific user needs—whether for installation, comparison shopping, or maintenance planning—a thoughtfully chosen used Bobcat auger can deliver professional-grade performance with a budget-friendly price tag.