Use and Care Guide

Version: 07242020
Maintaining Auger Points And Blades
Auger maintenance is simple enough that it’s often overlooked. However, anyone who
does a lot of gardening knows garden tool care and maintenance is the best way to help
ensure your tools not only work well, but last for years to come. With augers, regular
maintenance means the blades will likely stay sharp, perfectly aligned and properly
attached to the auger shaft. You’ll also be able to prevent long-term problems such as
rust and excessive wear. Read on to learn essential tips for maintaining your auger.
1. Inspect Your Auger
The first step to auger maintenance is to examine your auger thoroughly. Look along
the drill blades to make sure that they’re not bent and still properly fastened to the
auger’s shafts. Bent blades may need repairs, while broken welds will either necessitate
re-welding or the purchase of a new auger.
2. Confirm a Good Fit With the Drill Chuck
To make sure your auger runs optimally, you’ll need to check that it attaches to the drill
properly. First, inspect the attachment for wear. Rounded corners on the auger’s hex
drive are a sure sign that the auger was used improperly on a previous occasion, so
when you next attempt to use it, it may be difficult to get a secure fit with the drill’s
chuck. If you notice any rounding or wear on the hex drive, then it might be time for a
replacement. To prevent this from happening in the future, make sure to tighten the drill
chuck on the auger’s hex drive thoroughly, using a drill key if your power drill came with
one.
3. Cleaning and Storing Your Auger Properly
A key maintenance step is making sure that your auger is cleaned and stored properly.
To prevent unnecessary wear on your auger’s coating, wipe away soil and debris when
you’re finished using it. If you wash the auger, dry it thoroughly to prevent rust. Most
importantly, store it in a dry area to prevent rust in the future.
4. Oiling Your Auger
Another good way to prevent rust is to keep your auger oiled. Before you’re done with
the tool for winter, apply a thin coat of mineral machine oil to the auger’s surface. If you

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