Vermeer Manufacturing Co. introduces Splinelok II, an upgrade to their Splinelok connection system. Splinelok II is designed to create maximum strength in the tooling connection and enable simpler installation and removal of HDD accessories such as drill heads and backreamers. It is said to provide a strong connection to the starter rod and withstand the high forces generated when drilling in adverse ground conditions. This improved system provides a better fluid seal through the use of larger o-rings and o-ring grooves than its predecessor, and due to the tapered design of the joint, the connection is easier to separate.