HLA Skid Steer Auger Drive Unit
Overview
HLA Attachments manufactures skid steer auger drive units in Listowel, Ontario by Horst Welding — the same facility as their snow, land, and grapple products. Available through HLA dealers across Canada with multiple bit diameter options. Being Ontario-manufactured means dealer support and parts are typically faster to access than equivalent US-origin units for Canadian buyers.
Canada Availability
Best for: post holes, tree planting, footings
Compare with: Baumalight 10 Inch Skid Steer Auger Bit · Baumalight 12 Inch Skid Steer Auger Bit · Baumalight 18 Inch Skid Steer Auger Bit
Key Facts
- Type: skid steer auger drive unit
- Multiple bit diameter options
- Ontario-manufactured by Horst Welding
- Application: post holes, tree planting, footings
- SSQA skid steer quick attach
- Typical bit weight: 35–60 lbs
- Hydraulic flow: determined by auger drive unit (typically 15–30 GPM standard flow, 30–45 GPM high-flow for large drives)
Is This Right For You?
Buy if
- You drill post holes, footings, or tree holes regularly enough that buying beats renting
- Your skid steer's hydraulic output is matched to the drive unit — verify GPM range before buying
Skip if
- You only drill occasionally — renting an auger package for $250–$400/day often wins over ownership at $3,000–$8,000 investment
- Your machine's GPM is outside the drive unit's rated range — running outside spec damages the motor
Also consider
- A rental package first to confirm the right drive unit spec for your soil and machine
- Auger bits in multiple diameters — the drive unit investment only makes sense if you have the right bits to go with it
Compatible with all skid steer brands and compact track loaders via universal SSQA quick attach. Mid-frame machines (S450–S650 class) are the most common fit.
About HLA in Canada
HLA Attachments is an Ontario-based manufacturer that designs and builds attachments in Waterloo, ON, with a dealer network spanning all provinces. Backed by a Canadian warranty and local parts availability, HLA is one of the most trusted names on Canadian job sites.
Care & Maintenance
- Grease the drive unit gearbox per the manufacturer's schedule — typically every 8 hours of operation; a starved gearbox is the most common cause of drive unit failure
- Inspect bit carbide teeth after every use in rocky or abrasive soil — worn or chipped teeth increase drive unit load and reduce penetration
- Replace a worn pilot bit before the main teeth wear — the pilot centers the bit and prevents wobble that stresses the drive unit gearbox
- Check hydraulic hose connections at the drive unit before each use — hose chafing in tight soil is a common failure point
- Store bits vertically or with exposed carbide protected — storing lying flat with unprotected carbide causes chipping from incidental contact
How to Connect
- Attach auger drive head using Bob-Tach
- Connect high-flow hydraulic couplers (colour-coded on most brands)
- Verify rotation direction — auger should rotate clockwise when viewed from above
- Lower auger to ground and test rotation at idle before digging
Ready to Buy in Canada?
Pricing varies by region and dealer stock levels change seasonally. For current availability and a real quote, contact a local dealer.
Find a Dealer Near You →Complete the job — you might also need:
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