Skid Steer Post Pounders: Selection Guide

Installing perimeter fencing, corrals, or vineyard posts by hand demands multi-day labor that consumes valuable machine time. Upgrading to a hydraulic post pounder converts manual driving into an efficient, single-operator machine process.

Matching the right attachment to your skid steer depends on post diameter, hydraulic flow capacity, and soil density. This guide breaks down the core technical specs to evaluate when choosing between TMG Industrial’s hydraulic skid steer post pounders.

1. Post Diameter & Cup Capacity

The driver housing (cup size) determines the maximum post diameter your machine can accept. Driving oversized posts into a smaller housing causes binding, while using a cup that is far too large leads to unstable driving angles and mushroomed post tops.

• Standard Posts (up to 8” diameter): Suitable for standard wood corral posts, T-posts, square tubing, and highway signposts. Units built with an 8” collar handle everyday agricultural and property line fencing.

• Heavy Structural Posts (up to 10” diameter): Necessary for heavy corner posts, large timber retainers, driven pipe, and commercial livestock enclosures.

When evaluating post size, account for irregular wood cuts or natural swelling in pressure-treated timber. Select a driver cup slightly larger than your largest anticipated post.

2. Hydraulic Flow & Pressure Requirements

Hydraulic post pounders rely on continuous oil flow and system pressure to charge the internal nitrogen gas chamber and cycle the impact ram. Operating a driver outside its recommended specifications results in slow strike cycles or potential hydraulic system overheating.

Before selecting a driver, verify two numbers on your loader:

• Flow Rate (GPM): Standard auxiliary flow on mid-size skid steers ranges between 9 and 18 GPM. High-flow models range higher. Matching your loader’s GPM to the attachment’s operating range ensures consistent strokes per minute (SPM).

• Operating Pressure (PSI): Hydraulic drivers typically require 1,800 to 2,200 PSI to achieve full impact energy. Ensure your machine’s relief valve setting aligns with the attachment’s maximum operating pressure.

3. Impact Energy & Soil Conditions

Impact force is measured in Joules or Foot-Pounds. Higher impact energy allows the driver to break through dense clay, rocky ground, and frozen soil without damaging the post top or stalling the ram.

4. TMG Industrial Skid Steer Lineup Comparison

TMG Industrial offers two direct-drive hydraulic skid steer post pounders designed for universal skid steer quick-attach (SSQA) mounting systems.

TMG-PD700S (8” Capacity / 838 Joules)

Built for general agriculture, ranching, and utility line setup. The TMG-PD700S works within standard auxiliary hydraulic flow ranges (9.5–15 GPM), making it compatible with compact track loaders and small-to-midsize skid steers. Its 838-Joules energy rating drives standard wood fence posts and steel T-posts quickly without heavy fuel burn.

TMG-PD950S (10” Capacity / 1,030 Joules)

Designed for commercial fence contractors and heavy farm work. Featuring a 10” post housing and 1,030 Joules of impact energy, the TMG-PD950S drives large corner posts and heavy steel pipe into tough, compacted ground. It requires a slightly higher hydraulic flow range (13–24 GPM), making it an ideal match for medium-to-large skid steers and CTLs.

Quick Selection Checklist

1. Measure your largest post: Choose an 8” driver for standard property fencing or a 10” driver for large corner posts and heavy pipe.

2. Check loader auxiliary hydraulics: Confirm your machine provides the minimum GPM required for continuous cycling.

3. Evaluate soil conditions: Opt for higher impact energy (1,000+ Joules) if working in hard clay or rocky ground.

4. Verify mounting standard: Ensure your machine utilizes standard universal skid steer quick-attach plates.