John Deere Worksite Pro PA30B Planetary Drive Auger
Overview
The PA30B is John Deere's mid-range planetary drive auger, rated at 15–30 GPM and up to 4,500 lb-ft of torque — the workhorse of the Worksite Pro auger line for Canadian contractors doing heavy post holes, tree pit installation, and footing work. The increased torque over the PA15B makes it noticeably better in harder soils, glacial till, and compacted prairie subsoil. Five planetary gears in the gearbox (up from three on earlier versions) and oil-lubricated moving components make this unit durable in high-cycle commercial work. Accepts John Deere's 6–36 inch bit range, including 9–12 inch rock and frost bits.
Canada Availability
Best for: heavy post holes, tree pits, footings, compacted and rocky soils
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
- Drive type: planetary (5-gear gearbox)
- Hydraulic flow: 15–30 GPM
- Max torque: 4,500 lb-ft
- Application: heavy post holes, tree pits, footings, compacted and rocky soils
- Reverse rotation for clearing stuck bits
- Compatible with John Deere auger bits 6–36 inch diameter (standard, rock, frost)
- SSQA (universal quick attach) mount
- Compatible with John Deere skid steers, CTLs, compact excavators, and most competitive models
Is This Right For You?
Buy if
- You already have an auger drive unit and need the right bit for your soil type or hole diameter
- You drill specific hole sizes for fence posts, footings, or tree planting and need diameter variety
Skip if
- You don't have an auger drive unit — a bit alone does nothing without a compatible drive motor
- Your soil is solid rock or hardpan — standard earth bits fail fast, you need a dedicated frost/rock bit
Also consider
- Rock or frost auger bit if your ground is caliche, Shield rock, or frozen Prairie soil
- Auger drive unit if you don't yet have one compatible with your machine's hydraulic flow
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 John Deere in Canada
John Deere attachments are available through an extensive Canadian dealer network, ensuring local service, parts availability, and warranty support coast to coast. Designed to pair with JD machines but compatible with any skid steer via universal quick attach.
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:
More from John Deere
John Deere Worksite Pro 4-in-1 Combination Bucket
Standard FlowJohn Deere's Worksite Pro 4-in-1 bucket is a hydraulic combination attachment for John...
View product →
John Deere AB60B 60 Inch Skid Steer Angle Broom
Standard FlowThe 60-inch-inch angle broom sweeps paved and gravel surfaces — parking lots, yards,...
View product → John Deere AB72B 72 Inch Angle Broom
Standard FlowThe 72-inch-inch angle broom sweeps paved and gravel surfaces — parking lots, yards,...
View product →
John Deere BC72 72-Inch Worksite Pro Angle Broom
Standard FlowJohn Deere's BC72 is a 72-inch hydraulic angle broom in their Worksite Pro attachment...
View product →✓ Last checked: March 2026