The Chevrolet 1.5 ton 4x4 model G-7163 with Telephone Earth borer/Auger was used by the Corps of Engineers as Auger M1 and by the Signal Corps as Earth Borer and Polesetter K-44.
There were in fact two different models the YC a 1941 model with a shorter and angular rear body and the NR, build in 1942/43 with the rounded rear-body as shown here.
There are to my knowledge at least 3 surviving vehicles,
The near complete one now beleved to be in a museum in England, the other shown here with the actual Borer missing, in private ownership in France, and at least one in the USA in complete order.
The Borer unit was made by Highway Trailer co. Edgerton. Wisconsin USA as model HD.
They also made a Skid mounted model as HDM-S with a Continental engine model PF-226 which could be fitted in any suitable Truck/Vehicle , for instance the GMC 6x6 2.5 ton.
"The machine was build to dig holes , 9 inch to 20 inch diameter with a depth of nine feet in practicaly any soil condition except solid rock "
There are Support-Jacks fitted to the rear to stabilize the vehicle while working
The machine was driven by the power take-off from the transmission, and was commanded by two levers, the 'Feed Control Handle and the Drive Control Handle'. by the operator standing at the left side of the machine on the body platform.
A winch is fitted in the center of the truck
