4x4 Fence Post Base Retrofit

[elise111]

I need to replace some 4x4 PT fence posts that are set in good concrete (I set them years back). I would like to try to auger out the remnants and set a Simpson post base in the existing concrete ball, and add some concrete in the 4x4 hole to set the post base. Has anyone tried this before and have any feedback? Does it work?

 

[mike93lx]

Trying to get all of the existing post out sounds like a nightmare to me. How rotted is it?

 

[PCustoms]

Jack the existing post out with a puller or farm jack. Set the new post correctly.

The money you'll save on those Simpson bases should pay for any tools you need.

 

[elise111]

The posts are fractured as they enter the concrete base. I get about 10 yrs out of a post, so that was one of the reasons I wanted to go for the galvanized bases- to not have to pound in the c channel Simpson post reinforcements every 8-10yrs.

In the past I have used an auger bit to shred the remnants and shop vac them out. I then shaved a replacement post and slid it back it. That left a loose post after it inevitably shrank more. That led me to pounding in the c channels, but they are not galvanized and corrode away over time.

I have not heard of a post puller, I like that idea if one has a post to grab.

 

[txvwnut]

What you are wanting to do sound feasible my concern would be the new concrete not adhering to the existing concrete and you end up with a cold joint. The best way to do this is to demo out the existing post and concrete and pour a new base with the Simpson post base set in the fresh concrete.

 

[earl84]

I've removed and replaced about 50 of these. I am now of the opinion that posts should just go into the ground with a little gravel at the bottom of the hole. If you want to use the Simpson post, I would remove everything and pour new concrete into the hole and embed the Simpson base into fresh concrete.

 

[acer66]

Trying to get all of the existing post out sounds like a nightmare to me. How rotted is it?

Breaking the concrete off the post remains with a rock bar and then some wiggling it is normally not that bad.