Machine Heads Video: Glenn Danuser Talks Augers for Skid Steers and CTLs

Hydraulic augers may seem simple — until you burn through a gearbox or stall mid-hole. In the latest Machine Heads interview, Compact Equipment’s Wayne Grayson sits down with Glenn Danuser of auger and attachment expert Danuser to dig into the real mechanics of spec’ing the right auger attachment for compact track loaders and skid steers. From torque-to-speed ratios to bit construction and extensions, this conversation goes deeper than the typical buyer’s guide. Whether you’re boring fence-post holes or drilling footings through shale, this video is a must-watch.

Start with Your Machine

Before anything else, know your machine’s hydraulic specs. Danuser emphasizes matching an auger’s flow range to the low end of your CTL or skid steer’s gallons per minute (gpm) rating. That setup boosts torque output and slows rpms, which helps in tougher soil conditions. According to Glenn, most jobs — especially those in variable terrain — benefit from choosing torque over speed. Fast-spinning augers clear holes quickly in light soil, but in compacted or rocky conditions, torque is critical.

Simplify with a Single Drive System

Worried you’ll need multiple drives for different conditions? Glenn says no. Pick one heavy-torque system that fits your machine and run different auger bits instead. For most users, that means Danuser’s EP1530 or EP2035 — two high-torque units designed to handle just about any compact loader on the market.

Auger Bits: Fab, Cast or Rock

Danuser categorizes their auger bits into four groups:

• Fab (Fabricated) — Light-duty with bolt-on teeth. Best for soft soils.
• Cast — Heavy-duty, cast steel heads with drive-in teeth. Ideal for mixed or compacted soils.
• Rock — Bullet-style teeth for drilling into concrete, shale or fractured stone.
• Tree Bits — Cone-shaped, double-diameter fab bits for planting.

Cast heads hit the sweet spot for most operators. Unless you’re drilling exclusively in black dirt or consistently in solid rock, cast will cover your bases.

More Auger Advice Available

This Machine Heads video builds on our growing archive of auger coverage. If you’re in the market, be sure to check out:

• Auger Showcase: Dig into Details About 11 Different Augers
• Matching the Right Auger Attachment to the Correct Soil Conditions
• Maximizing Auger Attachment Longevity with Proper Maintenance

Each article covers a different angle — whether you’re comparing brands, navigating soil types or maintaining equipment for the long haul.

Final Word: Get Smart Before You Drill

In compact construction, speed matters — but spec’ing an auger isn’t about how fast the bit spins. It’s about smart matching, strong torque and understanding what you’re drilling into. Catch the full interview now to learn from one of the industry’s most experienced voices. Whether you’re spec’ing a new drive, upgrading bits or adding extensions, this 30+-minute video could save you hours in the field.

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.

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