What are Starter Rods?
Starter rods connect the drilling head to the drill rods and allow the contractor to easily change between pilot hole and reaming tools. While starter rods are not required, most contractors see the value in the ability to change tooling without the use of breakout wrenches or other tedious methods to change the drilling tools. Starter rods are typically used on smaller drilling machines that do no require large drilling heads and/or reamers to complete bores.
Starter rods are usually shorter than standard drill rods, as they are simply a quick connection between the drilling head and drill rods. The exact length can vary depending on the application and make/model of the drill rig.
Starter rods are compatible with most drilling rigs, but it is important to ensure the correct size and style are chosen based on the specific drilling equipment and application. Consult with your equipment provider to ensure proper compatibility.
To maintain starter rods, regularly check for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Clean the rods after each use, lubricate the threaded connections, and replace any parts that show significant wear to ensure optimal performance.