When your project calls for a horizontal directional drill that’s tough, consistent, and fast to set up, the American Augers VR‑500 earns its keep. It’s not flashy—but it wasn’t built to be. It was built to drill, day in and day out, in real-world conditions where downtime isn’t just frustrating—it’s expensive.
We’ve worked with clients in oilfield services, utilities, and large-scale infrastructure who swear by this rig. And if you’re trying to make your budget go farther without cutting corners, buying a used 2009 VR‑500 may be the smartest move you make all year.
Let’s talk about why.
Why the VR‑500 Is Still Relevant in 2025
Some rigs fade into obscurity the minute the next model rolls out. The VR‑500 didn’t. Why? Because it hit a sweet spot of power, footprint, and reliability that still checks all the boxes today:
- Rated Pullback: 500,000 lbs
- Rotary Torque: 60,000 ft-lbs
- Mud Pump Compatibility: Handles serious flow without stalling
- Footprint: Manageable for both urban and rural job sites
This is the kind of rig that’s overbuilt in the best way. Its frame, power train, and hydraulic systems were made for long-haul work—not for short campaigns or light-duty jobs. And because it’s mechanical and hydraulic—not overloaded with electronics—you can troubleshoot it in the field without waiting on a proprietary part from the manufacturer.
Cost-Saving Without Compromise
Lower Purchase Price
Buying new in this class can run you over a million dollars, depending on options. A well-maintained 2009 model from Power Drive Supply? A fraction of that—and it’s still capable of drilling with confidence.
Simpler Maintenance
No subscription diagnostics. No locked-down firmware. If something needs fixing, your mechanic can fix it—or we’ll help source parts from the aftermarket. You’re not locked into a manufacturer’s support plan just to keep the rig running.
Faster ROI
Because the cost of ownership is lower, your investment pays off sooner. That makes this rig ideal for crews expanding their fleet, replacing aging equipment, or picking up additional capacity for seasonal work.
Real-World Example: Municipal Infrastructure Contract
One of our clients picked up a VR‑500 from us last year to support a growing number of municipal utility projects. Their newer rigs were getting tied up on longer contracts, and they needed something reliable and available—fast.
They put the 2009 unit to work within two weeks. In the first three months alone, it completed:
- 6 water main replacements
- 3 fiber conduit crossings
- A 600-foot pull under a 4-lane road with no assist required
No breakdowns. No surprises. Just straight-line performance from a machine that’s built to move dirt, not sit on a trailer.
What to Look for When Buying a Used VR‑500
Not every used rig is worth your time. Here’s what we look for—and what you should ask about:
1. Track Frame Condition
Worn tracks or bent rollers are expensive to fix. We inspect for straight frame rails, solid welds, and smooth travel before a unit ever hits our listings.
2. Hydraulic Functionality
High pullback and torque are only useful if the hydraulics deliver clean, consistent pressure. We check for leaks, test under load, and make sure everything holds steady under stress.
3. Engine Hours and Service History
A Cummins engine with regular oil changes and clean filters is a strong engine. We verify hours, compression, and starting conditions.
4. Rod Loader and Carriage Wear
Inspect for slop, uneven travel, or anything that slows down rod handling. On a job site, lost time here adds up quickly.
5. Control Panel Simplicity
The VR‑500’s controls are mechanical and familiar—nothing overly complex. We make sure switches, valves, and indicators are clean, responsive, and unmodified.
Why Buy It From Us?
There’s a big difference between a company that lists equipment and a company that knows it inside out. At Power Drive Supply:
- We own our inventory — what you see is on our lot
- We inspect before we list — you get detailed photos, condition reports, and honest descriptions
- We handle logistics — shipping, coordination, and support are all included
- We speak your language — no fluff, no oversell, just practical answers to real-world questions
We’ve worked with clients across energy, infrastructure, and construction who don’t have time to play games—and we’ve built our reputation by delivering.
Proven Iron is Smart Business
If you’re on the hunt for a high-pullback, no-nonsense drill rig that just works, the 2009 American Augers VR‑500 deserves a serious look. It’s built for crews that care more about production than paint—and it still holds its own in today’s market.
Need a quote? Want to see it up close? We’re ready when you are.
Call us or hit the contact form to set up a walkthrough or reserve this rig before it’s gone. Once they hit our site, these units don’t sit long.