How to Replace Rotating Rock Picks on Dedicated Auger Bits

Rotating rock picks, are the auger bit teeth used on our Digga dedicated rock auger bits (DR) for drilling from soft rock to hard fracturable rock.

Here are some things you can observe to determine whether the rock picks are worn: The teeth need to rotate while drilling to maintain an efficient cutting tip. The tungsten tip and tooth should be evenly pointed. Poorly maintained teeth reduce cutting efficiency and wear out faster costing time and money. We recommend you replace worn teeth immediately!

Tip: the outside teeth (C) will wear the fastest as they are travelling the greatest distance so will need replacing more often. Try swapping the outer tooth for an inner tooth to keep the wear even. Always use your best teeth on the outside pockets.

Here are some examples or rotating rock picks in various states of wear.

Tooth A has not been rotating in the pocket and as a result the tooth is uneven and will cut poorly. We recommend changing this tooth. You may also notice if the tungsten tip has been worn down and flattened, we recommend replacing the tooth.

Tooth B indicates that they have been rotating in the pocket and “self-sharpening”. Tooth is good.

Tooth C has been rotating in the pocket and wearing evenly. This tooth is still good but must be inspected regularly as it is nearing its wear life.

In summary, the best course of action would be to remove teeth A and C. Discard A and place C in the pocket vacated by A. Place a new tooth where C used to be.  

Tip: Each time the auger bit is brought out of the hole to remove spoil, use a soft copper or dead blow hammer to tap all teeth ensuring they are rotating freely in their pockets. This will encourage even wearing around the tooth.

Removing Rock Pick Auger Bit Teeth

Rock picks are found on our dedicated rock auger bits. Follow either of the below steps to remove them.

Option 1: Place a rotating pick removal tool in the groove of the rock pick. Use a hammer to strike the tool’s strike point (fig.1) to tap it out. 

Option 2: Alternatively, use a pin punch & soft head mallet on the back of the rock pick to knock it out. (Fig.2)

Installing Rock Pick Auger Bit Teeth

Once removed, clean the pocket and follow the below to replace the tooth.

1. Replace the rock pick and knock it in all the way with a soft head mallet.

Note: Rotating picks must rotate freely. Never use grease or lubricants, as this will cause dirt to bind the rock pick and prevent it from rotating.

Replacing the Auger Bit Pilot

Replacing the pilot is similar on all auger bits and a pretty much foolproof.

1. Move the auger bit into position so the cutting head is easily accessible ensuring it is stable and secure. Remove the pilot by removing the bolts holding it in place and lift it out of place. Once removed, replace it with a new one and secure it with the provided nut and bolt.

Before starting to drill, please ALWAYS ensure that all rock picks and pilot are locked in tight.

Tip: After each day, hose down your auger bit head to remove dirt / dust from around the teeth. Left alone this dirt can become as hard as concrete locking the teeth in place. Next time you’re driiling your teeth won’t rotate and you may be up for new teeth or an expensive repair.

Reach out to us should you have any trouble removing or installing your rock picks or pilot. For spare parts or service enquiries, visit our website or give us a call at (563) 875 7915.

How to Replace Tapered Auger Bit Teeth
How to Replace Tapered Auger Bit Teeth