IceShanty.com's Ice Fishing Community

Ice Fishing Tips -Check your local regulations! => Equipment => Ice Augers => Topic started by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 15, 2014, 08:01 PM

Title: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 15, 2014, 08:01 PM
Here is my homemade 2.5 to 1 gear reduction for a cordless drill that I had mentioned in the clam conversion plate thread recently.  This is my proto-type reduction auger I built the last few days. I call it DORA, drill operated reduction auger.  It takes 450 rpm from the chuck and make 180 rpm at the bit. I run a dewalt 18v xrp, which can be removed from the unit in 16 seconds and another 14 seconds to remove the auger, in 29 seconds I removed both drill and auger from the reduction gear!!!!
The torque is just awesome!!!!!!I built it using old bicycle parts I had laying around.  I have a blue shoe string tying the drill in right now but plan to get a velcro strap. The drills throttle is the hand brake lever for easy control.  I painted it with industrial implement paint.....Awesome stuff, so nice I decided to wire wheel and paint my Mora showing bare metal.  Really turned out nice, I used a paint called MAJIK from tractor supply, it takes 24 plus hours to dry so you know its good, lol.  All in all, the project went awesome, can't wait to build another one!!!!  Did I mention total package, drill, auger, battery............... ..................17lb s!!!!!!!!!(http://s44.photobucket.com/user/Whiskerwacker/media/IMG_1701_zpseefed2b2.jpg.html)
(http://s44.photobucket.com/user/Whiskerwacker/media/IMG_1700_zpsb0ff4255.jpg.html)
(http://s44.photobucket.com/user/Whiskerwacker/media/IMG_1699_zps5eb1df96.jpg.html[img]
[img]http://s44.photobucket.com/user/Whiskerwacker/media/IMG_1703_zps53101dbd.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 15, 2014, 08:04 PM
I have no idea how to post images on this forum? Help please!
Just go through the photo bucket.
http://s44.photobucket.com/user/Whiskerwacker/media/IMG_1701_zpseefed2b2.jpg.html
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: kc_ on Dec 15, 2014, 08:51 PM
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f15/Whiskerwacker/IMG_1700_zpsb0ff4255.jpg) (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/Whiskerwacker/media/IMG_1700_zpsb0ff4255.jpg.html)

Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: kc_ on Dec 15, 2014, 08:53 PM
go to your photobucket account and click on the img. link to the right. Then right click in your posting, left click on paste. There the pic will be
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: kc_ on Dec 15, 2014, 08:55 PM
(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f15/Whiskerwacker/IMG_1703_zps53101dbd.jpg) (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/Whiskerwacker/media/IMG_1703_zps53101dbd.jpg.html)

(http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f15/Whiskerwacker/IMG_1699_zps5eb1df96.jpg) (http://s44.photobucket.com/user/Whiskerwacker/media/IMG_1699_zps5eb1df96.jpg.html)

there you go, very nice job, I would like to see it in operation
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: 800stealth on Dec 15, 2014, 09:03 PM
Nice project, cool idea.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: FrostBack on Dec 15, 2014, 09:07 PM
Now that took some SMARTS....good job. I would like to see it working as well.

As far as posting pictures...you almost had it but you used the " link" button instead of the "image" button to the left.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 15, 2014, 09:11 PM
Thanks!!! I will make a vid of it running tomarrow, she runs as smooth as silk. Hopefully now I can drill 8" holes with ease without hurting the drill, and my kids can drill holes without me fearing them hurting themselves. It really is light and easy to hold and use.  I drilled holes with an 18v xrp last season and had a few close calls almost nipping my shin with it spinning too fast, so I would not let the kids touch it. Now they can drill till all 6 of my batteries run out. I am hoping the drill will barely get warm with the reduction but time will tell.  Now if the temps would just drop at bit I would get to rip some ice.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: buz23 on Dec 16, 2014, 04:19 AM
That is a really neat job of engineering.  I suspect the thing might be harder to hold if the auger binds, though.  More torque on the auger = more torque on the operator too.  I hope a kid can handle it.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: cstolp on Dec 16, 2014, 04:54 AM
That is a really neat job of engineering.  I suspect the thing might be harder to hold if the auger binds, though.  More torque on the auger = more torque on the operator too.  I hope a kid can handle it.

They will probably try to get the auger to bind on purpose and then they have a carnival ride to occupy them during slow fishing.  Weeeeeeeeeeeee!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Dec 16, 2014, 07:06 AM
Very nice.  Great work.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Reel trouble on Dec 16, 2014, 04:16 PM
Great job I often wondered why no one had tried this yet seems like its No brainier for turning an 8 inch auger :)
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 16, 2014, 09:50 PM
Great job I often wondered why no one had tried this yet seems like its No brainier for turning an 8 inch auger :)

Me too, I mean, come on...... like I said products should be tested by regular people, not pro's with unlimited budgets.  Sure a drill will drill 6- 8 inch holes through the ice, but I feel bad for the poor drill. Pro's get drills for free to burn up, lol.  Gear reduction is the way to go.  I did some torque tests today with Dora and it is unreal I can't bog the motor and can put my entire weight down on the unit and no flex.  Just a few modifications and my prototype will be complete. I need some ice bad!!!!!! Can't wait to shred.  I am posting a vid shortly 
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: kc_ on Dec 17, 2014, 11:48 AM
when you get the mods. complete, seems like you would build me one just posting your pics. ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 17, 2014, 01:48 PM
when you get the mods. complete, seems like you would build me one just posting your pics. ;D ;D ;D
I would gladly build a few at cost to a few product testers!  For some reviews...  I am still figuring out where to order all the parts for the 1st production model.  All of the parts on this one were salvaged from bikes.   I would love to offer these for sale,   I don't plan to get rich or anything I just like quality tools, and if that means I have to make them myself.... so be it..... Lol.   Video is uploading now, I'll post when it is finished.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 17, 2014, 02:25 PM
Vid is finally done uploading......
&feature=youtu.be
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Dec 17, 2014, 03:23 PM
Great video and nice setup.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Townie on Dec 17, 2014, 05:45 PM
Whatta great build! Be sure to post a vid on the ice!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: kc_ on Dec 17, 2014, 05:46 PM
THANKS FOR POSTING THE VIDEO. I THINK YOUR INVENTION IS JUST THE NUTS. LET ME KNOW WHEN YOU GO INTO PRODUCTION.
 I HAVE A CLAM KNOCK OFF PLATE THAT I HAVE MADE MYSELF FOR THIS YEARS ICE. BUT I REALLY LIKE THE GEAR REDUCTION FEATURE.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: BrianB on Dec 17, 2014, 05:56 PM
That is some real mind work there. Thats a sweet rig there.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: nnelzon23 on Dec 17, 2014, 05:58 PM
Very well done! Since the clam plate came out, I have wondered why no one has come out with a reduction unit.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 17, 2014, 06:43 PM
Thanks for all the compliments!  I will def keep everybody posted on production it seems there is quite a market for this and I would love to make and offer them for sale.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: masoneddie on Dec 18, 2014, 04:20 AM
Just watched your video....excellent job!  :clap: :thumbsup:
Looking forward to seeing the first ice video....best of luck with your creation and thanks for sharing it with us!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: SkiSoloII on Dec 21, 2014, 08:28 PM
I'm sorry. This just looks scary to me. I'd be too afraid of catching some piece of my clothing/gloves in the gears/chain and lose a part of my anatomy.

Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 22, 2014, 01:08 AM
I thought of making a full chain cover, but decided against it, thought it might get clogged with snow or ice.  If used properly hands and clothing are nearly a foot away from moving parts.  I actually tried to get caught in the chain and could not as long as I stayed on the correct side with the chain guard.  Maybe I just use too many power tools during my day to day and have become numb to the danger of them, thanks for the comment.  The ice is starting to build here in NwPa, only a few weeks out from safe ice hopefully.  I will let you know how much blood is on the ice, lol   
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Dec 22, 2014, 07:27 AM
I'm sorry. This just looks scary to me. I'd be too afraid of catching some piece of my clothing/gloves in the gears/chain and lose a part of my anatomy.
Oh come on now the worst it is going to do is rip off your chest hair. Unless your real tall.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: jwetovick on Dec 22, 2014, 11:52 AM
Oh come on now the worst it is going to do is rip off your chest hair. Unless your real tall.

Lmao! good stuff.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Dec 24, 2014, 11:45 PM
Cool Idea and unit. Would like to see a video of it actually drilling an ice hole.


Also.......**censored** is with orange haven't you heard the song IN JOHN DEERE GREEN.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Dec 25, 2014, 07:12 AM
Personally I like the Orange. It's not a Deer anyway it's a DORA.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Cotacatchers on Dec 25, 2014, 10:34 AM
Very nice build.   Team DORA !!!!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: JiggerDan on Dec 25, 2014, 10:54 AM
Great job building that. Nice video. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 25, 2014, 12:54 PM
Very nice build.   Team DORA !!!!
I like it "Team Dora!!!!"  Merry Christmas everyone, Santa didn't bring me any ice ??? All open water here in Pa. I want to test this thing so bad it pains me, lol.  The temps are going to fall this week into the teens it shouldn't be long now. Once I drill some holes and make sure the gear ratio is perfect and nothing needs changed I plan to order my first round of parts to make a few. With the early ice we had in Nov. I thought I would have had everything thoroughly tested by now...... Can't change mother nature I guess.  Anyway, Thanks for all the interest and support in Dora, it keeps me motivated to push and make more.  I was in a field and steam store over the past few days in my area, and was totally disappointed in their selection of ice gear. I thought to myself if Dora was on the shelf I would buy it in a second over the other options they had.  It is like comparing Zebco to St. Croix.  If you can offer quality and versatility, the orders will come. 
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Dec 25, 2014, 01:25 PM
Very nice, put me on the list...
I have seen other reduction set ups before, but a quick search did not turn any up... I believe they came in to the market to soon, but now that the drills are as good as they are, Dora will work great!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Dec 25, 2014, 04:22 PM
Personally I like the Orange. It's not a Deer anyway it's a DORA.

Understandable. Lets hope it runs like a deere.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Dec 28, 2014, 09:42 PM
I know I had seen another out there, The ice kicker II;
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ice-Kicker/156920947669144
Also on ebag for 75.00...
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 29, 2014, 12:44 AM
Yeah, I did see that, somebody had mentioned it in the clam review thread.   I thought it was well built but poorly thought out. To explain...... It doesn't mount the drill, causing you to put unneeded weight on the drill. There is only one very thin handle to hold onto while cutting.    I could only imagine it spinning and breaking your wrist.  Plus it looked as if it had a 5/16" or 3/8"  bolt to go into the chuck of the drill. That would get tore up in a hurry I think. Not talking crap, just think it could be better.  Add mounting the drill, add two comfortable handles, throttle control on one of the handles, Grade 8 axles, and replaceable drive chuck and you have Dora.  Like I said, I am not talking crap on other products, just noticed a few things that need some TLC, lol.   
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 29, 2014, 12:53 AM
By the way...... Temps look awesome this week for some ice finally here in Pa!!!!! Temps in the teens, I am going to be able to test it and get some vids next week hopefully. As soon as that ice is thick enough to drill through. I am in the process of making a jig mold right now,making molds is new stuff to me, hope it works....... ::)
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Dec 29, 2014, 05:45 AM
I like the looks of the Dora much better and hope to get to use one in the not so distant future!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Slimbobbin on Dec 29, 2014, 06:57 AM
That looks like just what I'm looking for so I don't need to go buy a high priced drill great job
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Dec 29, 2014, 08:07 AM
I will still use a quality drill, but I think It will be able to cut a 8' easier than a straight drill...
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 29, 2014, 10:19 AM
I am starting to look around for a decent deal on an 20v Xr "dcd995" I think.  I was designing a custom battery pack for my 18v xrps that was the same physical size but packed with 4500 mah cells which would give me 4.5ah at 18v instead of 2.6 from the nicad xrp bat.  20% loss at 2000 cycles.  Then I though I am building x2 4.5 ah packs and it would cost about $90 to build them but 9 ah in 2 bat.......Awesome, and cheaper than I can buy new xrp packs.  Then I thought of brushless technology and saving 57% of energy over brushed motors!  Then Dewalt had to do it.... 5ah batteries plus lith ion is not effected by temps all the way down to 0 f Ni cad drops voltage after 20 f so I just keep my packs warm.  I also considered the mil fuel with 4.0 ah bat.  The mil out performs dewalt in hammer mode drilling concrete, but the dewalt crushed mil into wood.  Wood is a better test for a drill than concrete I think. Mil just has a better hammer action.  I have been a loyal dewalt owner for almost 20 years, hard to see me using any other drill.  This lith ion, brushless Xr stuff is cool, and would make the perfect powerplant for Dora. Till then 18v xrp with custom 4.5ah pack will do just fine.....LOL!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: beeverfishing on Dec 29, 2014, 11:25 AM
Looks Good, can't wait til we get some ice in Pa so I can see it work on the ice..   :tipup:
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Ice Scratcher on Dec 29, 2014, 12:17 PM
That's awesome!!!

You going to make some more to sell?

<*)))>{
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 29, 2014, 07:52 PM
That's awesome!!!

You going to make some more to sell?

<*)))>{

I would love to make more of these,  this one is my prototype.  Today I swapped out the grade 8 bolt on the drill side, that had a replaceable chuck, for something better..........  I used a 1/2"x 6" long socket extension and mated the smaller drive gear to it, that way it is not a factory replacement part if you need to replace it.  It will save so much time in making parts and is a way better setup than b4.... If the chuck going into the drill gets tore up it is as simple as going to any autoparts store and buying a 1/2" drive 10mm allen socket and pop it on.  They make those allen sockets to hold some serious torque and it is already perfectly inline 6 sided.  It could save a fisherman weeks of shipping production parts too!!!!  It works Awesome,  replaceable in seconds for a few bucks!  It took a few hours to reverse engineer but it really is nice.  Now to make the handle slide up and down with a quick release, a seat post clamp should do, so it fits any drill. So far I have have  a 18v xrp, 20v compact, and a hitachi 18v lith ion all fit just need to make the height of the drill mount adjustable about an inch or so.  Ice will be here this week and next week I will hopefully be drilling holes and ordering some parts!  Good thing I didn't order them already, or I would have a shop full of extra crap...... what else is new. lol
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Rugburn on Dec 30, 2014, 05:51 PM
 Great idea. I have one suggestion. More guarding. If some kid comes up with a scarf on, and stands on the wrong side. Yikes. Enough said.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 31, 2014, 09:18 AM
I never thought of a scarf.....Thanks.  I looked at it like a bike with no chain guard,  I have been riding bikes for 25 years and never not one time has the chain ever drew blood and your leg is within a inch of the chain. My pants would get stuck from time to time but have never been injured. On the production model I will put a full guard just for saftey.  Thanks for all the suggestions, it is the input of all of you that will make Dora the key tool for using a cordless drill as an ice auger.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Rugburn on Dec 31, 2014, 09:29 AM
 Yeah, I'm not a big fan of the strings on hoodies either.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Rugburn on Dec 31, 2014, 09:44 AM
 Your idea has me thinking, I have an old jiffy 30. It has almost everything you need already, including the enclosed gearbox. May have to cannibalize it if I want to go to a bigger hole diameter. A pretty simple conversion kit, and you go from the Harley-Davidson (noisy) of ice augers to electric. There are lots of people who own these. 
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: prospector on Dec 31, 2014, 10:22 AM
Your idea has me thinking, I have an old jiffy 30. It has almost everything you need already, including the enclosed gearbox. May have to cannibalize it if I want to go to a bigger hole diameter. A pretty simple conversion kit, and you go from the Harley-Davidson (noisy) of ice augers to electric. There are lots of people who own these.
I have thought of this as well. Planetary gears could serve the same purpose and reduce the size of the transmission while eliminating safety concerns. DORA is a great idea for the Dewalt drills. Over the years, I have torn up several 18v. And 36v. dewalt gear boxes. Great job PaWhiskerWacker!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Ice Scratcher on Dec 31, 2014, 11:48 AM
Glad to hear your thinking about making a production of it!!!!

I personally prefer chain drive, sprockets and chains are easy to find/fix compared to gears...

Have you looked into the new chain pitch they use on BMX bikes? You sprockets could only be half the size, with the same ratio...

<*)))>{
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 31, 2014, 12:00 PM
Glad to hear your thinking about making a production of it!!!!

I personally prefer chain drive, sprockets and chains are easy to find/fix compared to gears...

Have you looked into the new chain pitch they use on BMX bikes? You sprockets could only be half the size, with the same ratio...

<*)))>{
Interesting!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: buz23 on Dec 31, 2014, 03:46 PM
Here's someone who has a fairly compact 7:1 reduction on his drill.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXBqx4sh14w (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXBqx4sh14w)
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 31, 2014, 05:30 PM
Here's someone who has a fairly compact 7:1 reduction on his drill.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXBqx4sh14w (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXBqx4sh14w)
 
That is pretty cool, 7 to 1 is too slow though, 450 rpm in speed 1 where torque is greatest, is only 64 rpm at the bit, at 2000 rpm that is 285rpm at the bit, a little fast.  You would need a 3 speed drill for sure.  Not all drills are 3 speed.  That thing is really cool.  Make one around 2.5 or 3 to 1 and that would be perfect.  Not too fast not to slow.  The only down side is, try to fix it if it breaks down.  Seems a bit complicated to repair. Every piece is a factory order.  If you can get me more info on that reduction unit that would be cool.  I just think that a chain drive is a more effective method of a 2.5 gear reduction. Simple and easy to repair. A product being serviceable means alot to me.  I am a contractor, and I really abuse my gear. Nothing ticks me off more than a broken tool I can not get a part for. 
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Dec 31, 2014, 05:38 PM
Here's someone who has a fairly compact 7:1 reduction on his drill.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXBqx4sh14w (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXBqx4sh14w)
Now all he needs is One leg to be shorter then the other so he can drill a straight hole.
I can drill by hand a lot faster then he did.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: buz23 on Dec 31, 2014, 06:19 PM
Search around for information on Hougen Holcutter Speed Reducer.  Not sure if they are still made or not, and looks like they cost about $200.  The ones I found info on were 4:1.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 31, 2014, 06:58 PM
Sweet unit, you still have to remove the chuck of the drill.  Then you loose the ability to take your drill to work easily.  It would take a little work to get an auger bit to attach but it could be done.  I didn't see any pricing info.  It has serious potential.  Needs a few tweeks to be an ice auger, but I like it.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Dec 31, 2014, 07:02 PM
I just the Hougen Holcutter Speed Reducer up and found them from $175 to $195. Pretty pricey to make it work.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Dec 31, 2014, 07:36 PM
Yeah, $200 plus a $300 drill and $80 auger =$580 invested and drills usually come with the smaller bat packs, add a few batteries and you could just buy a electra lazer.  Plus it would need to be modified to fit an auger???$  It is a great idea just not cost effective. Thanks for the info
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Dec 31, 2014, 08:01 PM
I am sure your Dora is going to work out just fine for you. Glad to see people saving money. I try but when you get old you just spend it.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 01, 2015, 06:29 PM
1st successful test of Dora tonight!!!!!!!!!!!!  I fabricated the adjustable height drill mount today, worked perfect, I have tried 6 different drills in it now and all fit with no issues!  My home lake has been building ice like crazy for 3 days now, so I waited until dark...."so nobody called 911 on me for being out there,"  or called the funny farm, lol.  I drilled about eight holes in 3" of ice, just to check how she worked.  Absolutely no motor bog at any speed! Not even the slightest hesitation.  It was perfect! Everything I ever wanted in an auger, no joke! It cuts like a hot knife through butter.  2.5 to 1 is perfect.  Powerful and easy to use, just as I hoped.  I am going to shoot a video tomarrow morning, hopefully the ice will be stable.  The ice today was 3" thick black ice but it was not liking my weight too much.  They are calling for a couple warm days and then cold in the teens and single digits!!! Dora has a fever and the only prescription is thick ice!!!!!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Jan 01, 2015, 06:44 PM
Sounds great, 3" is a good start but I am sure it will work just fine on thicker ice.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 01, 2015, 07:09 PM
Sounds great, 3" is a good start but I am sure it will work just fine on thicker ice.
The way the weather here in Pa has been, I'll take 3 inches!!!!  Not sure I want to fish it yet but for test the auger, yipeeeee!  It is 3 solid inches I swear........LOL
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Rugburn on Jan 05, 2015, 04:21 PM
 Congrats man on a great project!! I still might cannibalize my jiffy 30. The auger bit on those is left handed, but with a power drill I guess that doesn't matter.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 09, 2015, 07:09 PM
Sorry, I have not updated in a while, 1st, I got welders flash due to my auto darken helmet malfunctioning in the cold!  I could not even look at a computer screen, eeesh!   I got my ice hut down to the lake today and spudded a few holes, the ice is still uneven on the deeper side of the lake where I like to fish,  some 6" down to 2"s in spots.  I decided to take dora down the the shallower thicker side of the lake to see how many holes I could get off one charge on a 2 year old dewalt 18v 2.6ah ni cad battery.  The ice is hard as a rock 7" thick where I drilled.  I managed 16 8" holes through 7" of ice.  That equals 112" of ice.  The gear reduction is right, the drill didn't bog or struggle, it just cut awesome!  My mora has year old china blades that look a little beat up.  I am looking to order some made in sweden soon.   I read brushless motors have 57% more run time than brushed?  That turns 16 holes into 24 and dewalt now makes 5ah batteries, " twice as many as ni cad 2.6ah".  That turns 24 into around 40! 40 8" holes on one charge would be crazy!  I would love to buy a new drill but don't want to spend the money, plus my 18v xrp is a great drill, I just want more than a 2.6 ah battery.  I am super pleased the drill was not even warm after 16 holes straight!  Last year without reduction the same drill would have exploded 16 straight.  In fact I burned up multiple switches, trying to drill back to back to back.  The motor on the drill would burn your skin only a few holes in.  Dora still needs some refining, I am still looking for the right parts..... sealed bearings that will hold up and making the chain tensioner spring loaded.  The chain hasn't popped during operation yet but does cause a little drag, I am yet to figure out the best way for the tensioner set up.  The current one is fine for now on the prototype, but a spring loaded tensioner is needed for a production model.  I am still working on that ??? ;D
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Jan 09, 2015, 08:52 PM
Awesome! I can't wait!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 11, 2015, 07:15 PM
I have been putting dora to the test the last two days, we finally have some good ice.  It has performed just awesome, drilling hole after hole.  I found out though that one of my batteries is junk!  Just new last year!  It charges to over 20v but drills 3 holes and that is that.  The other battery that came in the same pack drills 20 8" holes through 7" of ice!!!!  I will be contacting dewalt to see what the warranty says. No clothing, ice picks, scarfs or anything has got caught in the chain. I think I will leave the one side open with no chain guard, it truly does not need it.  It is awesome to see right through the holes in the sprocket right to where you are cutting. The drills chuck hasn't even needed tightened and I drilled 50+ holes with it.  I thought it may come loose so I made a easily replaceable chuck, and prob didn't need to. So far so good with testing!!!!!!! I may have to take some time off fishing to make more :o
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Jan 12, 2015, 07:09 AM
Can't wait!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: prospector on Jan 12, 2015, 09:00 AM
Scary deal with your eyes! Take that junk battery and marry it to a 20 volt USB device that Dewalt sells. You can run your XRP on 20 volt batteries. Works great, been doing it for years. Take the cells out of the old battery of course. I also have an adaptor that goes from a Dewalt 18 volt to a Ryoby 18 volt and can run them all on the 20 volt lithiums. New tools are tougher to make mods on because they interface with the batteries. The old ones are just sucking juice and are not particular.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Ice Scratcher on Jan 12, 2015, 09:42 AM
Have you considered a "half link" of chain?

Usually no tensioner is needed, sometimes a half link will take up the slack if necessary....

http://www.piratecycles1.com/li415ch12li.html

Here is a spring loaded tensioner to check out, pretty expensive but might help your thinking process..

 http://www.piratecycles1.com/picysplochte.html

The also make half links in the BMX chain pitch too...

<*)))>{
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Rugburn on Jan 12, 2015, 09:53 AM
 The old dirt bikes used nylon roller tensioners.  ;D
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: canthookit on Jan 12, 2015, 12:35 PM
Thats excellent.

Safety thing though - you want to cover the gear & chain completely from above. Loose clothing, hoodie strings, ETC will cause some scary injuries.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 17, 2015, 04:52 PM
Dora tore up the ice today, crushed it. Drilled 20-25 8" holes through 7-8" hard ice, one 2.6 ah bat drilled at least 15.  Had a few fisherman stop to look, both guys used drills for 6"holes, both said they thought it was sweet!  Then I fished some 6" holes somebody else drilled, after that 8" holes looked friggin huge.  I am going to pick up a 6 just to get more holes per charge.  The custom battery pack to hook the 18v xrp to a 12v deep cycle bat works great has lots of power just spins a little slower, but still makes quick work of 8" solid ice.  Lovin this thing!   
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Jan 17, 2015, 07:20 PM
Good deal, You deserve a pat on the Back so here it is.
(http://i1196.photobucket.com/albums/aa414/lefty2053/patontheback_zpsb91deae0.jpg) (http://s1196.photobucket.com/user/lefty2053/media/patontheback_zpsb91deae0.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: DAPOS on Jan 18, 2015, 09:41 PM
I must be missing something here???? Why does anyone need any gear reduction to run a drill driven auger? I just use my Dewalt 20v brushless straight to either a 6" nils or 7" mora, and it will cut all day long through the thickest ice, and the variable speed REALLY works great to start slow, and once engaged....let 'er rip, and job done in seconds. The only thing I can see the reduction doing is slowing down the whole process? Having said this, I'm a real fan of any Rube Goldberg designed anything. Heck, you should see my home made jawjackers, 4 sequential events have to occur before the hook is even set, although, the sequence occurs faster than the blink of an eye ;D
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: prospector on Jan 18, 2015, 11:38 PM
I must be missing something here? ??? Why does anyone need any gear reduction to run a drill driven auger? I just use my Dewalt 20v brushless straight to either a 6" nils or 7" mora, and it will cut all day long through the thickest ice, and the variable speed REALLY works great to start slow, and once engaged....let 'er rip, and job done in seconds. The only thing I can see the reduction doing is slowing down the whole process? Having said this, I'm a real fan of any Rube Goldberg designed anything. Heck, you should see my home made jawjackers, 4 sequential events have to occur before the hook is even set, although, the sequence occurs faster than the blink of an eye ;D
I am with you when it comes to smaller bits. When you jump up to a 10", D.O.R.A. Is looking like it might just have some merit. Also should help small drills do the work that directly connected larger drills can do, without burning them up. I have ruined many an 18 volt drill by asking it to do too much.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 19, 2015, 01:09 AM
The main thing is it spinning dangerously fast, at full throttle where power is greatest, I too have burned up xrp drills with 8" holes, that's why i built this. Plus it makes a drill a real auger.... something you can grab, why do you think people buy the clam plate, which does nothing but make it easier to use.  Drills work good for 6" holes, 7 is pushing it and 8" is a good way to burn up all but the best of the best drills $300-$400.  Variable speed is just dropping the voltage to the motor which wears on the parts, like a chainsaw, gas auger, anything, peak power is at peak rpm.  I like 8" holes, if I ran a 6" auger, you are right, the top of the line drills will drill holes just fine, but still spins way too fast, I would never let my kids touch a drill but have no worries letting them drill holes with this.  Thanks for the comment, but I will stick with gear reduction and save my $300 drill.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 19, 2015, 01:12 AM
Plus, I nearly doubled the amount of 8" holes my drill can drill on the same battery without it ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: buz23 on Jan 19, 2015, 04:26 AM
Plus, I nearly doubled the amount of 8" holes my drill can drill on the same battery without it ;D ;D ;D

I don't understand this.  If you remove 2X the ice the drill and battery are doing 2X the work, even if it is not spinning as fast.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Jan 19, 2015, 06:40 AM
No the drill is still spinning the same speed but the auger is not. So it is drilling the same speed but doing 2 times the holes. Less torque on the drill.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 19, 2015, 07:02 AM
The drill isn't drawing as many amps when it is not under heavy load, its not removing 2 times the ice, with the 2.5 to 1 gear reduction the drill works less hard doing the same job.  Like changing gears on a bike to make it go up hill easier.  Without straining the battery and motor less amps are used, = more holes per battery.  A 18v dewalt drill will draw 40amp under extreme load and the variable speed switches are only rated to 25amp.  Drills are not made to take that extreme amp draw, so when you hear your drill struggling, just think of the internal damage to wiring and battery packs drawing twice the amperage they were intended for.  The battery's are not meant for 40amp discharge = pack damage and fewer charge cycles.   Plus auger blades were never built with the intention to spin 450rpm last year without reduction I burned up two sets of auger blades and they had flat spots in the middle from overworking them, this year no signs of wear on the blades yet, and she has drills prob 200+ holes.   
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: buz23 on Jan 19, 2015, 07:11 AM
You're getting twice as many holes but its not removing 2 times the amount of ice?

When you shift to a lower gear to go up a hill on a bike it is easier but you are still doing the same amount of work - its just spread over a longer time.  Maybe the fact that it is easier on the drill results in a longer battery life, that might be possible.  But the thing still has to obey Newton's Laws.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 19, 2015, 07:25 AM
Good point.  Overall that is why ion, lithium lazer ext..... are 48 -50v systems, more volts = less amps= more efficient.  Drills are the poor mans version, lol.  But finding the right way to use em....4-6" augers are ok. but if you want that 8"+ something needs done.  There you go with Newton, action- bigger hole needed....... reaction get a Dora. LOL @) @) @) @) @) @) ::) :tipup: :tipup: :tipup: :tipup:
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 19, 2015, 03:42 PM
Here it is..... Drilled 20 holes on one 2.6ah bat through 10" of good ice with a few inches of crap on top today. Here is a vid of a few,  you can't see the drill because it is in a frog toggs bag to keep the drill dry, but it is a 18v xrp that is a few years old, with a two year old pack.  I could only imagine a brushless drill......
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Jan 19, 2015, 04:53 PM
Sweet!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Icer 16 on Jan 20, 2015, 10:47 AM
This Auger is awesome!  I will have to build one of these for myself
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 20, 2015, 06:50 PM
Tore it up again today, 10 straight trough 10" with no sign of a drained bat.  10 holes was all we needed to get on the structure we wanted or I would have been able to drill 10 more probably.  The lakes ice is still funny 10" in spots and 2 inches just feet away so we are limited to where we can fish.  I really want to test it out with a lith ion brushless.  I bet it would replace gas augers all together.  It is funny, My buddy I fish with alot quit bringing his jiffy gas auger and just has me punch holes for him. 
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 23, 2015, 05:15 PM
I used a strikemaster auger sharpener today, man they work great!  Cheap china blades cutting like surgical steel!  Dora just rips it up!  I raced a buddy with a jiffy gas auger and got blown away, lol.  No chance.  But I can drill as many 8" holes as I want with no signs of wear to battery or drill.  With sharp blades I drilled over 20 holes through 10" of ice today on one charge.  Smokin!!!!  Everywhere I go people flock to this auger, taking pics and sending it to their friends.  People started calling me MacGyver around my home lake, I guess it fits.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Jan 23, 2015, 05:54 PM
I am glad you are enjoying your invention. Glad to see others asking about it and taking pictures. Shows it was worth all the work you put into it. Congrats on a fine invention.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 23, 2015, 07:14 PM
Thanks,  I for sure put it to the test these last two weeks, and not a problem to be had.  After using it for a few weeks I realize how needed gear reduction really is for 8" holes, and will for sure be making many more to come.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Jan 24, 2015, 04:11 PM
Quote
will for sure be making many more to come.
Glad to hear it!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Ice Scratcher on Jan 24, 2015, 11:45 PM
Glad to hear it!

Me too!!!

<°)))>{
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 27, 2015, 09:55 PM
Today I used my buddy's eskimo silver tip 8" on Dora, it cut so nice I will be getting one for sure.  I cut 13 holes through 10" with no sign of low battery.  I was amazed the difference between my mora and this auger.  Next time we fish together I will see how many holes one 2.6ah bat will give me.  I will guess 25 through 10" of ice, 250 inches of ice on 2.6ah with an 8" bit is plain awesome.  Here is a vid of the last 5 of 13 I drilled, it cut so nice we had to make a video.  Can't say enough about the silver tip worth every penny at least at first.  There is no way without gear reduction that this drill could have spun such an aggressive auger, it would have burned up for sure. With gear reduction.....smooth as silk. Check it out!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Jan 28, 2015, 07:11 AM
When will my Dora be in the mail? I have the Silvertip 6" which cuts great but Dora,she makes it real nice.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Ice Scratcher on Jan 28, 2015, 10:47 AM


Awesome!!

<*)))>{
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Townie on Jan 28, 2015, 11:13 AM
Very impressive with a 8" bit! Throw a 6" Lazer on Dora and it'll  punch all day
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 28, 2015, 12:19 PM
I was super impressed too!  After building it I fell in love with it, but now after trying a more aggressive auger I am head over heals for it.  I smile every time I cut a hole!  Watching people hand drill and people trying to start their gas augers.  I love to watch videos on you tube of people smoking out brand new drills punching 8" holes. Another plus is I can remove the drill in a few seconds and off to work, no chuck removal like the clam plate.  I use my drill for work 12 months a year so $ spent on a drill is $ earned, not used 3 months a year like ion, or lithium lazer.  The only thing holding up production is the cash to order 1st round of parts.  Me being a contractor, work slows in the winter and I have been making just enough to get us by. I need to grab a quick money making contract to order up some parts.  I am trying to use all made in usa parts but they can be hard to find all the way down to the steel tubing used to build the frame.  Dora, born and raised in some little hick town USA,  build by a Pa hillbilly on his front porch.  That is the american dream to me! I am ready to turn my 16'x20' woodshop into a manufacturing facility!!! I am very excited, thanks for all the comments, suggestions and support. 
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: 77tech on Jan 30, 2015, 09:21 PM
 I picked up a kids bike last fall with the idea of trying to make a clam plate type drill with gear reduction but haven't gotten any farther than that.  I like your design using the bike frame way to think out of the box.   Think I may go with that type of design except I don't have a drill with the auxiliary handle so I'll have to alter the design a little.   Do you keep the drill in "drill" mode or are you able to use the higher clutch settings to give you a little safety factor if you hit something solid while drilling.  I know with the slower speed it's probably not needed but just wondering if you have tried that.   I believe my gear set gives me a 2 to 1 reduction if I remember correctly and I'm wondering if I stay with a six inch auger if a twelve volt drill would work.  The drill and a 7 or 9 amp hour gel cell battery seems like it could make a good combination and give new life to that drill I should have thrown out years ago.   
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 31, 2015, 04:49 PM
With the reduction the clutch settings do work, and is def safer.  2 to 1 I think may be a little high for 12 v,  maybe 3 to 1 for 12v.  2.5 is perfect for 18v drills.   I ordered x2 12v 7.5 ah lithium batteries, I plan on wiring them in series and over volting my 18v drill. I did some test on a old drill and 24v to an 18v drill did not overhead the motor at all.  The battery pack will be about 6"x 6" by 3.5 inches tall and weigh about 5lbs. See how this works.  Post some pics of your gear reduction when done, so we can check it out.  I had thought about making a second handle so not to push on the drill at all, but with the dewalt I haven't needed it, 360 degree handle, but mil fuel does not have a 360 handle so a permanent second handle would be needed.  Most all hammer drills have a t handle, drills that don't have handles may no drill very many holes, due to running less watts= using more amps to do the same job and batterys were not made for super high amp draw.  12 v may work for now but the batterys life will be shortened.  18v drills are much better, but hard to find after market lithium batterys with the right voltage with high amp draw capabilities. That is why auger companies are switching to 40v and 50v systems, much more reliable batterys made from 18650 cells.  I have looked all over the internet and could not find lithium 18v batterys with high ah and 40amp draw, lithium battery cells are 3.7v compared to 1.2v like ni cad.  If one wanted a 18v 10ah pack with 40amp draw, he would have to build it and hope that the lithium battery does not exploded, lol.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: 77tech on Jan 31, 2015, 09:33 PM
Guess I'll have to keep and eye out for some different gears.  Looks like the ice season here is over for this year so I'm not in a big hurry for the project.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Feb 01, 2015, 03:26 AM
Ice season over????  How thick does the ice get where you live???? maybe 12v could work for you, sounds like a crazy short season. Good luck
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Ice Scratcher on Feb 01, 2015, 11:00 AM
Guess I'll have to keep and eye out for some different gears.  Looks like the ice season here is over for this year so I'm not in a big hurry for the project.

Dang, if your season is that short, a good spud bar should serve you just dandy...

<*)))>{
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: 77tech on Feb 02, 2015, 08:29 PM
Middle of January we had 12 inches of ice then we had two weeks with highs in the upper 40's to upper 50's with a mid 60's thrown in.  Had a low of -7 last night we'll just have to wait and see we might have fish-able ice again.  As far as spud bars after making a couple I think I know what features I want in the third one to make it just right !
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Feb 03, 2015, 05:13 AM
That is my biggest fear, a few warm weeks to mess up ice season.  Well, here in craword co, pa, we just got 2 ft of snow on top of what we already had and 6" more on the way tomarrow night.  There is about 30" of snow on the lake in spots.  Makes for a fun drag! A few warm days may end my season too, 2 ft of slush is enough to deter the most die hards out there.  This year has been crazy 40f one day and -10f the next.  Hope you get a few more trips out there this year, good luck
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Feb 12, 2015, 05:49 AM
Just an update, I have been fishing everyday, putting dora to the test.  She has out performed my expectations!!!!!! I drilled at least 60 holes yesterday through 12-18" of ice!  I was all over the lake practicing for a tourney coming up this weekend, lol.  I brought 3 dewalt 18v xrp batteries with me and the 3rd was still going strong. At one point I drilled 11 in a row over a basin looking for fish and the drill and battery did not even get warm.  I am still running a 8" Mora with sharp china blades, but can only imagine what a nils or fine bore 3 would do.  Next year it will be mil fuel and fin bore 3 on dora!  Testing has been a dream, and it is for sure ready for production not a single problem to be found.  100% the easiest auger I have ever used!!!!!!!!   
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: kc_ on Feb 12, 2015, 12:26 PM
better send me a prototype for more testing.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Feb 15, 2015, 11:59 AM
Once production starts up, I will be contacting all of doras' supporters here on shanty for 1 generation deals for testing.  I do thank all of you for suggestions and criticism!  All of you helped make Dora what it is and what it will be.  I am truly loving this auger... did a tourney yesterday, come 5 am gas augers everywhere, loud as heck!  Dora silently drilled our 45 ice holes through 18" of ice in subzero wind chills in short order.  14 in a row and no heat coming from battery or drill!  I have been purposely working it hard and it just eats ice like a pro.  I packed slush up in the chain and let it freeze on purpose just to see what happened, it just spit the ice out of the open side of the chain guard and the chain and gears were clean and good to go.  Just can't believe the difference in how the drill handles the load with the reduction compared to without.  Last year no reduction I got 8 holes per battery through 18" of ice, this year 15-20!!!!   last year when I drilled in my hut, 4 holes in a row, the drill would be so hot you could not touch it near the motor and I replaced the switch 4 times in one season.  This year with Dora, same model dw989 can drill at least 14 straight through 18" on one charge without heat or struggle. Same mora hand auger both years.  I have more than doubled the holes from each charge and have done no damage to my drill.  Sweet!  By the way making the holes easier to drill still didn't win me any prize loot in the tourney.  :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( Lol
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Feb 15, 2015, 02:46 PM
Good luck in the Tourny next time!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Feb 18, 2015, 09:02 AM
Thanks, got a tourney next weekend too.  My gf's son and I fished the extreme cold front we had here in Pa all weekend.  My # of holes dropped slightly with the ni cad bats in -20f temps.  Still managed to at least 30 8" holes through 18" with my three 2.6ah bats and still had charge.  Then we got on the fish and stayed put and warm beside the woodstove. -20f outside,  80f inside the hut ;D.  Even my truck was cold blooded that night, after I warmed it up the axle lube was still frozen, every time I pushed the clutch the truck would slow down real fast. So a drop in # of holes due to extreme cold was not a big shocker.  I tried to start my husqvarna 440 chainsaw to cut up some firewood that day b4 fishing and it would not fire up in -20f and that saw runs like a champ.  I would still consider electric augers more reliable than gas in extreme cold, but I am comparing chainsaws to augers I guess.  -20f is not exactly hole hoping weather anyway.  We fished it just to say we did and prove to ourselves we can fish a -40f windchill @) @) @) @)lol
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Feb 18, 2015, 11:37 AM
That is quite a report! The gear reduction really is a game changer! I hope that I will have a DORA for next season!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Mar 10, 2015, 11:52 PM
I have not  posted in a while, with it being tourney season, lol. Busy, busy!  Just wanted to update, I have fished almost everyday this season with Dora and not a single problem!!!!!!  Only ran out of charge one day, fished the tourney at conneaut lake pa, it was -25f in the morning and the bats got cold, there was three of us with 5 tippys a piece, we moved around a bit, so it still did prob 35-40 holes that day.  This past weekend the lake we fished had close to 30" of ice and Dora still got 12 8" holes through 30" of ice, with a Mora on one battery!!!!!!  Fin bore 3 next season!!!!!!  After using Dora for almost a whole season I can truly say that gear reduction is the key to drilling 8+" holes with a cordless drill.  The drill never even got warm, all season, from 20 holes back to back all the way up to 30" of ice!!!!  NO Drill Damage!!!!!!   I believe a brushless drill would drill a 10" hole with reduction too! I will work hard all off season to make as many as I can and next season Dora will be available.  It is only a matter of time till a large company makes a reduction unit, but I will put the quality and durability of Dora against any other product out there.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Mar 11, 2015, 04:53 AM
Thanks for the update. Sounds like you got a winner there. Wish you well on your making of other units.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Mar 11, 2015, 08:07 PM
It is yours I want for next season!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: MookieB on Apr 13, 2015, 05:45 PM
yeah, let us know what it would cost to produce one of these. I would like to have one.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Apr 15, 2015, 10:05 AM
Will do, thanks for the interest.  By september there will be Dora's available for the up coming season!  I will keep everybody posted. Thanks again.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Ice Scratcher on Sep 14, 2015, 10:46 AM
Happy September!

How we looking boss?

<°)))>{
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: beeverfishing on Sep 21, 2015, 06:24 PM
Will do, thanks for the interest.  By september there will be Dora's available for the up coming season!  I will keep everybody posted. Thanks again.


 :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Chuckles on Nov 01, 2015, 03:55 AM
    Hey there   PaWiskerWacker   how's the production of DORA  coming along ?
 I sent you a PM but it was unable to be delivered.   An update would be nice.

Later.... Chuckles
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Jan 23, 2016, 05:19 AM
OK what is going on with DORA?
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Jan 29, 2016, 06:25 AM
I drill holes with her everyday, she is still going strong!  Absolutely no trouble or drill wear in two seasons now.  I did add a second unit mounted handle instead of using the drills t handle and it did make a big difference slushing holes out.  There will be Dora's available at one point, I have just been too busy with my contracting company to do what I need to do to get some made.  I need to build a pole building so I have the space,my current shop is more like tool storage in the winter time and leaves little room to work on anything.  Plus I still need to get my fishing in, lol.   This year I picked up a strikemaster mag 10" off a buddy at a good price, and am yet to use it.... The ice has only been 6" all season......I bring one battery with me and Dora drills all day!  I apologize for delay on making a few of these available but I wanted it to be just right, and I believe it now is.  In my opinion the safest, easiest to use, most versatile auger there is.   ;D 
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Jan 29, 2016, 09:18 AM
Thanks for the reply. I don't blame you for wanting to get your fishing in. Good luck on making more.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Jan 29, 2016, 09:28 AM
Looking forward to it! I am sure it will be worth the wait!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: DLB on Oct 03, 2016, 05:49 PM
Reading another thread and found reference to this one.  Its been a long time since the last post....does anyone know what ever became of this?

Edit:  Just saw the post by ice scratcher concerning the new reduction gear unit by Clam but I'm still interested in what happened to the one in the thread just for curiosity sake.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Nov 19, 2016, 07:04 AM
My construction business blew up, too much work to make any reduction units.   Dora slammed holes for 2 seasons with no absolutely no problems, and still looks brand new. No drill wear at all!...  Before I made a reduction unit, I broke multiple commercial drills pounding 8" holes...  Dora is ready to eat some ice again this year, I may buy a better auger shaft for it this year, the one I have been running is an old Mora, I put a eskimo silver tip on there and it ate ice like crazy!  Gear reduction is the way of the future for sure, in my opinion, It does make the world of difference! 
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Ice Scratcher on Nov 20, 2016, 10:08 AM
My construction business blew up, too much work to make any reduction units.   Dora slammed holes for 2 seasons with no absolutely no problems, and still looks brand new. No drill wear at all!...  Before I made a reduction unit, I broke multiple commercial drills pounding 8" holes...  Dora is ready to eat some ice again this year, I may buy a better auger shaft for it this year, the one I have been running is an old Mora, I put a eskimo silver tip on there and it ate ice like crazy!  Gear reduction is the way of the future for sure, in my opinion, It does make the world of difference!

Pat, glad to hear your work is keeping you busy..

Thanks for sharing your ideas and passion with us..

I'm thankful to have a gear box now for my clam plate.. There is a good chance this thread was part of the drive to get a gear reduction setup commercially made..

Thanks again and good luck this season!!

<°)))>{
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: DLB on Nov 22, 2016, 07:46 AM
Thanks for satisfying my curiosity PaW.  I'm sorry to hear you couldn't do more with the unit but the business taking off makes up for it.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Agronomist_at_IA on Nov 22, 2016, 08:38 PM
Pat, glad to hear your work is keeping you busy..

Thanks for sharing your ideas and passion with us..

I'm thankful to have a gear box now for my clam plate.. There is a good chance this thread was part of the drive to get a gear reduction setup commercially made..

Thanks again and good luck this season!!

<°)))>{

X2 I think this thread had some bearing on the development of the clam gear box
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Sharp Nils on Nov 29, 2016, 07:54 AM
  Interesting thread.   When I see the title I can't help thinking of "DORA the expLORA".  I can't be the only one. :)
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Feb 07, 2017, 12:17 PM
I am pleased Clam is offering gear box units now, Hearing about the recall on units if funny though.  Dora still cuts ice perfectly 3 years later.  A chain drive makes more sense in my eyes...  Less parts to break.  I think it would be impossible to strip the gears on DORA.  It will take clam a few seasons to work out the kinks I am sure.  Gear reduction just makes sense....    I am proud to have possibly contributed something useful to the industry.  Although I feel like all I did was weld up a little scrap metal.  LOL.  I am sure clam seen the overwhelming need for a gear reduction unit due to all the interest of the Ice shanty members!!!  Props to clam for filling a void in the market.  Now if they can just dial it in.  Props to clam to for standing by their products and offering a recall!!!   
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Feb 07, 2017, 02:58 PM
I would still rather have one made by you, than clam...
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Feb 21, 2018, 07:31 AM
Another flawless season for my homemade gear reduction!!!!!! Same drill and batteries this whole time!  The ice got to 14" this year, hole after hole after hole.......It still blows my mind how well it works!  I stitched a water proof bag around the drill this season that can hold some hand warmers next to the battery in extreme cold, it works awesome! I never thought 5 years later I would still grab DORA over my gas auger.....every time all season long! Next year I am going to treat her to a new Milwaukee! It is going to rip!
(https://s18.postimg.cc/s31cbi5h1/IMG_1698.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/s31cbi5h1/)
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: SirCranksalot on Feb 21, 2018, 07:47 AM
Great machine!!! Are you making any for sale?
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Damn Yankee on Feb 22, 2018, 02:48 PM
I am pleased Clam is offering gear box units now, Hearing about the recall on units if funny though.  Dora still cuts ice perfectly 3 years later.  A chain drive makes more sense in my eyes...  Less parts to break.  I think it would be impossible to strip the gears on DORA. 

Icegator for all their years never had any mechanical problems and their unit also had a chain drive.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: SirCranksalot on Feb 22, 2018, 02:52 PM
apparently that Clam plate has lots of probs to iron out before it can be considered reliable.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: PaWhiskerWacker on Feb 24, 2018, 09:07 AM
I am currently brainstorming an aluminum version to run a k drill and a Milwaukee. I have seen too any broken drills this year....... I am really surprised no major companies offer reduction yet.  I watched a guy use a k drill with one hand on a Milwaukee, it about broke his wrist... I did like the k drill, super light.. and the Milwaukee power was impressive, but it still just spins too fast!  Has my mind working.... The worlds lightest power auger????  LOL!  Dora weights 17lbs. 
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: SirCranksalot on Feb 24, 2018, 02:49 PM
Keep us informed pls. Can I get 1 on 'back order"/  ;D               I understand that Al is a bit tricky to weld.
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: stripernut on Feb 24, 2018, 08:48 PM
I put my order in a long time ago!
Title: Re: Drill Operated Reduction Auger.....D-O-R-A!!!!!!!!!
Post by: lefty2053 on Feb 25, 2018, 05:54 AM
I put my order in a long time ago!
Humm, reminds me of Overtons.