When contractors think of truck-mounted soil sampling rigs, they often picture large models mounted on heavy-duty trucks that have difficulty getting into hard-to-access areas. However, Lone Star Drills offers the option to mount some rigs on light- to medium-duty trucks that offer quick setup and more versatility than large truck-mounted drills. Below, we run through benefits you’ll experience from our highly transportable truck-mounted rig options.

1. More Mobility Than Heavier Units

Lone Star Drills LST1G+HD and LST1G+HDA soil sampling drills are more compact than other truck-mounted rigs. While their size allows them to be mounted to a trailer, we also offer a specially designed frame to mount them on a truck, providing more transportability and maneuverability than their larger counterparts. This allows them to navigate diverse terrains and access remote locations where less-mobile units may not be able to go. Our truck-mounted soil sampling drills maintain their versatility without sacrificing power, offering high performance in a transportable package.

2. High Performance

Beyond maneuverability, we build our truck-mounted soil-sampling drills to be highly efficient with ample power and capabilities. They’re each equipped with a planetary reduction gearbox with up to 1,100 foot-pounds of torque to tackle challenging soils. The LST1G+HD and LST1G+HDA can drill up to 100 feet deep and feature a 25-horsepower Honda gas engine with EFI and electronic governor to power the 3,000-psi hydraulic system.

3. Accuracy and Consistency

The LST1G+HDA, like our trailer-mounted units, also addresses the growing need for automatic hammers in soil sampling applications. It features a 140-pound automatic hammer that transfers more energy than a manual hammer — and more consistent force — to the drill rod. This results in less of the hammer’s energy being lost due to friction or lateral movement and increases sample consistency. The drill is compatible with our split spoon samplers and AWJ drilling rod for obtaining core samples, as well as conducting geotechnical testing and environmental soil sampling.

4. Ability to Span Several Soil Types

We understand that not every soil sampling project is the same and that sometimes you work with a variety of different soil types. That’s why we didn’t cut corners with our truck-mounted soil sampling drills, offering the versatility to work with multiple kinds of soil just like our trailer-mounted rigs with quicker setup. Both the LST1G+HD and LST1G+HDA offer a standard point and blade for soft soil, a carbide blade for medium to hard soil, and a rock tooth auger for hard pan and weathered formations.

5. Versatility for Different Jobs

It’s important to select a soil sampling drill with a range of offerings to ensure it accomplishes everything you need while maximizing ROI. From trailer-mounted to truck-mounted, our soil sampling rigs are far from one-dimensional. Lone Star Drills truck-mounted drills provide comprehensive soil sampling capabilities, allowing you to conduct standard penetration tests, geotechnical testing, split-spoon sampling and hollow-stem sampling.

There are several considerations to take when deciding if a truck-mounted drill is best for you and your operation. We’re happy to help guide you through the process. Check out our soil sampling resources and feel free to reach out to us with any questions you might have.