Flex auger replacement

[Gbbc]

Hi all,

We are currently using a Chore-Time flex auger. We need to move our mill to a different location and thus increase the length of the auger. Looks like getting the parts is no issue. Is replacing the hole flex auger yourself something doable or would it be better to get someone to do it?

Cheers

[Todd Hicks]

Hi all,

We are currently using a Chore-Time flex auger. We need to move our mill to a different location and thus increase the length of the auger. Looks like getting the parts is no issue. Is replacing the hole flex auger yourself something doable or would it be better to get someone to do it?

Cheers

I recommend downloading the Chore Time manual and reviewing their installation recommendations. Other than that, it is pretty easy once you have a couple of extra hands and a few ladders.
\ Getting the length and tension correct on the auger screw is most important. Also, you can only make so many bends in certain direction. It is in the manual. Search will dig it up.

[lhall]

You can extend a section of the flex auger screw by BRAZING another piece on to it. You can't weld it, the spring steel will become brittle and break. Find someone who still knows how to braze metal. Then overlap the new and old sections by about 6 inches, clamp them together, and braze them together. If done right, the joint will be stronger than the rest of the spring. Make sure to grind down any sharp points so they don't wear a hole in the PVC pipe.

[TGTimm]

For sure, get the downloadable manual from Chore Time. The one truly confusing point in the manual is the forbidden multiple "left-hand" turns--from what point of view?

We've built and extended three Flex-Augers, and it's pretty simple. With the manual, you'll have the limitations on angle-of-rise and turns, so plan and work around those. Extending the spring in the auger isn't terribly hard (following the instructions in the manual)--I used our TIG welder and phosphor-bronze rod to extend two--no breaks or unexpected wear years later. Phosphor-bronze falls in a grey zone between welding and brazing.

Regular PVC pipe can be used for the straight runs, but you'll need to buy the sweeps from Chore Time or another supplier.

As stated above, getting the length and pre-load right is critical.

Don't try to make your own parts--I built a couple of grain pick-ups, and had nothing but trouble with them for a couple of years before getting them tuned in. Clearing a jam in the auger generally means pulling the entire spring out--no fun, especially in a crowed space.

[Gbbc]

Thank you all for the replies, including Tim from Premier Stainless Down Under.