Video: Discussing Blue Diamond Auger Attachments for Skid Steers and Compact Track Loaders

Machine Heads dives deep with Blue Diamond Attachments on drive sizing, torque, bit styles and jobsite setups. Compact Equipment’s latest Machine Heads interview is a must-watch for contractors using compact track loaders (CTLs) and skid steers. Host Wayne Grayson sits down with Kevin Murphy of Blue Diamond Attachments to break down everything you need to know before buying a hydraulic auger setup. Below, we summarize key takeaways and highlight how Blue Diamond’s auger lineup fits a range of machines and soil types.

Start with Flow, Pressure and Hole Size

Before buying an auger, match it to your machine’s hydraulic capabilities and the type of work you plan to do. Flow controls how fast the bit spins, while pressure determines how much torque the motor can deliver. The size of the hole and the type of soil will decide which of these factors matters more. If you’re drilling large-diameter holes in dense clay or fractured rock, prioritize torque over speed. One smart move is to choose an auger drive that performs well near the low end of your machine’s flow range. This approach increases torque output and helps prevent gearbox damage.

Choosing the Right Auger Drive

Blue Diamond’s auger drives fall into three basic tiers based on hydraulic flow and torque output.

• Entry-Level (EX1, EX2)
  Designed for machines running 8 to 16 gpm. Great for fencing in soft soils with smaller bits.
• Mid-Tier (EX3, EX4)
  Designed for most modern skid steers and CTLs. These drives pair well with bits up to 36 in. in mixed soils.
• Heavy-Torque (EX4 HF, EX5 HF, EX6 HF and EX7 HF)
  Built for machines with high flow and pressure. These drives push torque past 4,000 ft-lb and include relief valves to prevent damage during stalls.

Always size up if you’re on the fence. Under-powering a big drive just slows it down. Overpowering a small one can destroy it.

Match the Bit to the Soil

Blue Diamond offers a range of auger bits designed for specific ground conditions:

• Standard Heavy-Duty Bits
  Fabricated heads with bolt-on teeth. Affordable and effective for soft to moderate soil.
• Cast-Head Bits
  One-piece steel casting with push-in teeth. Built for tough soils, compacted clay and mixed conditions.
• Rock Bits
  Bullet-style carbide teeth and hard-faced flighting. These demand 3,000 lbs of down-pressure and a high-torque drive.
• Tree Bits
  Tapered shape — 30 in. top, 15 in. bottom — for fast planting with less spoil.

All Blue Diamond bits feature double flighting for faster spoil removal.

Go Deeper with Extensions and Adapters

A typical 4 ft auger bit can reach up to 6 ft deep. Need more? Add:

• Fixed extensions in 2-, 4- or 6-ft lengths
• Variable extensions with pin holes every 12 in. for flexible depth
• Telescoping boom mounts for extra reach in tight spots

If you’ve got a mix of hex and round bits, Blue Diamond’s auger adapters allow easy switching between formats.

Built for Real-World Use

Contractors looking to future-proof their attachment investment should lean toward higher torque drives. Machines are only getting stronger, and a bigger auger now could save you from replacing it later. Learn more in in the video above or visit our YouTube channel and subscribe!

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.

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