You can set up a new fence as part of a farm or homestead DIY project. Follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to drill fence post holes with a tractor auger and lay out straight fence lines efficiently and safely.
Before getting started, read the operator’s manual for the tractor auger to familiarize yourself with the equipment. Follow all the operating instructions for your safety.
Call 811 to get in touch with Common Ground Alliance, the group behind the “Call Before You Dig” campaign. This organization will mark the underground utility lines on your property for free, ensuring you can safely dig without causing damage.
Now that you know digging is safe, you can start planning your fenceline. Plot out a straight fence line, and mark the fence post depth and spacing. These marks will determine where you should start digging.
Now you’re ready to start digging the fence post holes. Connect your auger implement to your tractor. The right auger size for fence posts ranges from 6 to 12 inches, depending on the fence material.
Position your tractor so the auger is over the hole location. The auger needs to be vertical, so use your three-point hitch to lift the auger off the ground, and turn your tractor’s leveling crank until the auger is in the right position. Lower the auger until the point just touches the ground.
When the auger is lowered, idle your engine, and engage the front loader’s PTO. Increase its speed until the auger penetrates the ground and dirt comes out of the hole, making sure the PTO speed doesn’t exceed 540 revolutions per minute. Continue to drill down while lowering the three-point hitch, moving your front loader forward if needed to create a straight hole. Continue until your hole has reached the depth you want.
Once your fence post hole is deep enough, raise and lower the auger to clear loose dirt away. Remove the auger, disengage the PTO, and repeat the process for all of your marked fence hole locations.
Do you want to set fence posts with a tractor auger? Holt Ag Solutions has the equipment you need. We offer post hole diggers and augers to create precise holes and front loaders with buckets to move the auger into position. Purchase your equipment by contacting us online, or visit your nearest location to learn more about our options.