This experience has persuaded the company to buy more Kubotas instead of JCBs.
Joint owner Paul Savage said that he was impressed by both the reliability and the resale value of the 3t Kubota U30-3.
Kubota is the market leader in mini excavators and the U30-3 is one of eight zero tail swing machines in its range. A key feature is its 1.55m width, which, together with zero tail swing, allows operators to access and carry out excavating and trenching work in the tightest of surroundings.
Sitting between the existing 2.5t U25-3 and 3.5t U35-3 models, the U30-3 generates 26kN of maximum digging force at the bucket and has a maximum reach of 5,060mm at ground level, with a maximum digging depth of 3,060mm.
Kubota’s key-based ‘Anti-Theft’ system, approved by Thatcham, the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre, helps to improve security and reduce insurance costs.
Mr Savage said that he would not have considered switching from JCB to Kubota unless a client had specifically wanted them.
However, he added: "Over time the machines proved to be everything expected of them and we were pleasantly surprised. You hear lots of claims from manufacturers about their machines, and they’re not always borne out. But the Kubotas did everything we were told they would do, and more, and we were very impressed."
The defining moment came when it was time to sell the first three machines and he discovered how they held their price.
"A large percentage of our machines are operated by the people who hire them, so consequently they do get worked hard," added Mr Savage. "Despite this, we never had one problem or breakdown with the Kubotas and what’s more, after three years they showed very little wear and tear.
"Other than routine servicing they needed very little maintenance and as a result the running costs were very low. So although buying more Kubotas is a break with tradition for us, there is no doubt in our mind that we have made the right choice."
Savage’s machines – which have been specially liveried in their yellow colour scheme with Union flag to match the rest of the company’s range – were supplied by the local Kubota dealer, Avon Equipment Sales, based in Stratford-Upon-Avon.
Avon sales director Zac Clulow said: "Savage Plant Hire is famous for its association with JCB, so getting them to make such a significant investment in Kubota machines is a real coup.”
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