Hydro Drill Instructions
In boring a hole, carefully align pipe with the opposite side. If you stay on target for the first ten feet, the tool will run straight for the remainder of the bore. Set the desired grade with a level.
Please oil frequently with a good lubricating oil, on both the inside and outside on the shaft.
Different soils will require different amounts of both water and pressure on the tool. For example, in gummy, stiff dirt or clay, a 3” bit will drill faster than a 2” bit.
When boring through rocky soil, bore with caution. If you hit a rock, the bit will veer off track. If this happens, the drill should be shut off and the water left running. With several forward and backward motions you can usually push the rock aside so that the bit will pass without losing it’s alignment. If this does not work, turn the drill on and move very slowly until the bit has made a groove in the rock. Then it will not slip out of alignment and you may exert more pressure. (We do not guarantee our bits as rock bits, but users are generally getting good results.)
Helpful hints to ensure proper boring:
- Never put side pressure on the drill. The pressure must be exerted in a straight forward motion. Side pressure or putting “english” on the drill will wear out the bearings prematurely.
- You must at all times, run the tool with water, and use a straight piece of pipe.
- It is a good idea to use a drill with a chuck no larger than 3/4”. We recommend a 1/2” drill for the #1 Hydro Drill. Drills with 5/8” or 3/4” chucks can be used for the #3 Hydro Drill.
- Threads on couplings should be checked frequently. If they are worn, they should be replaced.
- To get best results, use a 450 rpm drill. Do not use a drill over 700 rpm. Do not use an air impact tool, or an electric impact tool.
- Take your time – it is much better to bore slowly and carefully than hurriedly.
In boring with a 4” or larger bit, make a 2” bore as above. Then remove the 2” bit and replace it with a 4” or larger reverse bit. Then simply back out of the hole you just dug. DO NOT REVERSE THE DIRECTION OF THE DRILL! The reverse bits are designed to work with the drill motor running in the forward direction. Running the drill in reverse will unscrew the pipe threads and leave your expensive bit somewhere in the middle of the hole.
Be sure to maintain a constant drill speed when the reverse bore is being made. This assures you of a clean bore, and saves undue strain on your drill. The pipe should then be immediately installed into the bore.
Caution! This unit should not be used without proper grounding. Attach the included ground wire to the water inlet valve and to any solid ground, preferably a steel rod driven into the ground. More wire may be needed than the length provided.