Jinma JM-254 Reviews
You Can Do Better. Spend the Money Because This Will Nickel And Dime You To That Anyway
Model Year: 2014
Since I purchased this Jinma 254 with a front-end loader and a backhoe, I have only put 60.1 hours on it. A good portion of this was because I had to store it because I got promoted in my job and I had to move to another city an eight hour drive away until I left that employer. When I removed the backhoe (frame mount), which was easy, I installed the necessary linkage for the three-point. Well, the three-point lift didn't work. I had to replace the diverter valve and the push rod for three-point piston, since it was bent from the factory because I never used it. It still didn't work. Then I replaced the distribution valve and that did it. Again, I never used that so it was bad from the factory. I was using the front-end loader two weeks ago and the right bucket tilt hydraulic cylinder push rod snapped. Now I am spending $300 to $400 to fix that. I have replaced a number of seal washers on hydraulic lines. It is like when I was removing the backhoe, one bolt would be missing a lock washer, another a flat washer. There was no consistency in their quality control. They put a ton of paint on everything so you have to get all that off to work on something. The fenders came with pieces of paint missing that were painted over with a base coat. Now the dealer for this thing where I purchased it is too far away to just drive to (Oregon). So, any type of parts you can count on being down at least two weeks. I was down with that distribution valve for close to two months until I could get it figured out. Of course, I pay the shipping on everything - that includes sending that hydraulic cylinder back because the dealer said there were two types for that front-end loader and he couldn't tell me which one it was. Then they don't call you back. I replaced the horn on it because it just quit working. Now I have an electrical issue in the ignition where all of the instrument panel goes out. If you jiggle the key they come back on. 60.1 hours folks.
Pros: Simple enough to work on yourself
Cons: No quality control, poor workmanship, bad dealer network
Model Year: 2014
Since I purchased this Jinma 254 with a front-end loader and a backhoe, I have only put 60.1 hours on it. A good portion of this was because I had to store it because I got promoted in my job and I had to move to another city an eight hour drive away until I left that employer. When I removed the backhoe (frame mount), which was easy, I installed the necessary linkage for the three-point. Well, the three-point lift didn't work. I had to replace the diverter valve and the push rod for three-point piston, since it was bent from the factory because I never used it. It still didn't work. Then I replaced the distribution valve and that did it. Again, I never used that so it was bad from the factory. I was using the front-end loader two weeks ago and the right bucket tilt hydraulic cylinder push rod snapped. Now I am spending $300 to $400 to fix that. I have replaced a number of seal washers on hydraulic lines. It is like when I was removing the backhoe, one bolt would be missing a lock washer, another a flat washer. There was no consistency in their quality control. They put a ton of paint on everything so you have to get all that off to work on something. The fenders came with pieces of paint missing that were painted over with a base coat. Now the dealer for this thing where I purchased it is too far away to just drive to (Oregon). So, any type of parts you can count on being down at least two weeks. I was down with that distribution valve for close to two months until I could get it figured out. Of course, I pay the shipping on everything - that includes sending that hydraulic cylinder back because the dealer said there were two types for that front-end loader and he couldn't tell me which one it was. Then they don't call you back. I replaced the horn on it because it just quit working. Now I have an electrical issue in the ignition where all of the instrument panel goes out. If you jiggle the key they come back on. 60.1 hours folks.
Pros: Simple enough to work on yourself
Cons: No quality control, poor workmanship, bad dealer network
jinma254
Model Year: 0
Low cost, old technology tractor. Good on fuel. Little issues come up from time to time. Overall not bad value. Does the work fine, I have a Lw7 Backhoe attachment, box plow, field mower and rototiller attachments. No hydrostatic drive. 25hp which is plenty for the work I do.
Pros: cheap
Cons: not as easy to drive as the ford hydrostatic I replaced.
Model Year: 0
Low cost, old technology tractor. Good on fuel. Little issues come up from time to time. Overall not bad value. Does the work fine, I have a Lw7 Backhoe attachment, box plow, field mower and rototiller attachments. No hydrostatic drive. 25hp which is plenty for the work I do.
Pros: cheap
Cons: not as easy to drive as the ford hydrostatic I replaced.
Jinma 254
Model Year: 2009
I live on a steep hillside and this little tractor has pulled logs, cut tracks, cleared vegetation and been a robust and reliable unit. It also has a great---and proven, ROPS (see the photo).
Pros: Excellent value for money.
Cons: Not any major ones.
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Model Year: 2009
I live on a steep hillside and this little tractor has pulled logs, cut tracks, cleared vegetation and been a robust and reliable unit. It also has a great---and proven, ROPS (see the photo).
Pros: Excellent value for money.
Cons: Not any major ones.
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Great Tractor
Model Year: 0
I have the Tractor King 25 hp version. I have had it since 2005 and only had to replace the battery. Starts every time and runs great. Loader, pto etc. works great. Only small leakage of hydraulic fluids on occasion.
Pros: Price, durability, dependability.
Cons: Narrow tires.
Model Year: 0
I have the Tractor King 25 hp version. I have had it since 2005 and only had to replace the battery. Starts every time and runs great. Loader, pto etc. works great. Only small leakage of hydraulic fluids on occasion.
Pros: Price, durability, dependability.
Cons: Narrow tires.
8 Years with a Jinma 254
Model Year: 2006
I have desert acreage that only occasionally needs a tractor, such as during and after the rainy season, to knock down weeds and fill erosion channels. My tractor has only 500 hours or so of operation but has filled my needs well. That said, if I was to begin some regular farming or ranching output I would probably go with a more expensive machine with better features such as a true shuttle shift. In the relatively short time I have operated this tractor the clutch cable has had to be readjusted several times, the clutch pedal broke in half and had to be rebuilt/replaced with a more substantial assembly, there have been numerous electrical issues such as gauges not working, lights, key switch and so on. The primary functions such as the engine (followed the initial full fluid changes, 50 and 100 hour recommendations for tightening head bolts and so on) the four wheel drive system, hydraulics have functioned well and continue to do so. The primary pieces of equipment that I use are a Jinma FEL, Jinma 60 in. rototiller, box blade and cement mixer. Future additions will include a Top N Tilt for the box blade (which will also give me down pressure on a post hole digger, for instance)and possibly a backhoe kit.
Pros: Very economically priced.
Cons: Cheaply built, component quality, particularly rubber parts is not good.
Model Year: 2006
I have desert acreage that only occasionally needs a tractor, such as during and after the rainy season, to knock down weeds and fill erosion channels. My tractor has only 500 hours or so of operation but has filled my needs well. That said, if I was to begin some regular farming or ranching output I would probably go with a more expensive machine with better features such as a true shuttle shift. In the relatively short time I have operated this tractor the clutch cable has had to be readjusted several times, the clutch pedal broke in half and had to be rebuilt/replaced with a more substantial assembly, there have been numerous electrical issues such as gauges not working, lights, key switch and so on. The primary functions such as the engine (followed the initial full fluid changes, 50 and 100 hour recommendations for tightening head bolts and so on) the four wheel drive system, hydraulics have functioned well and continue to do so. The primary pieces of equipment that I use are a Jinma FEL, Jinma 60 in. rototiller, box blade and cement mixer. Future additions will include a Top N Tilt for the box blade (which will also give me down pressure on a post hole digger, for instance)and possibly a backhoe kit.
Pros: Very economically priced.
Cons: Cheaply built, component quality, particularly rubber parts is not good.
Not Bad for the Money
Model Year: 2005
I paid less than 11k for the brand-new tractor with front end loader and a shredder, and it was money well spent. The engine and drive train are dependable and tough. Everything else has either broken or never worked in the first place---instruments, lights, and other non-essential items are crap. I've installed an after-market replacement for the hour meter, and the gas gauge is a stick inserted in the tank). Also, the fuse box shorted out and caught on fire in the field a the two-year mark (good thing I had my cooler with me). Still, no regrets. It works well and that's the reason I bought it. I just wish it were heavier. Plenty of power, but the wheels spin too much.
Pros: Dependable drive train; works well; good price.
Cons: Cheaply built add-ons.
Model Year: 2005
I paid less than 11k for the brand-new tractor with front end loader and a shredder, and it was money well spent. The engine and drive train are dependable and tough. Everything else has either broken or never worked in the first place---instruments, lights, and other non-essential items are crap. I've installed an after-market replacement for the hour meter, and the gas gauge is a stick inserted in the tank). Also, the fuse box shorted out and caught on fire in the field a the two-year mark (good thing I had my cooler with me). Still, no regrets. It works well and that's the reason I bought it. I just wish it were heavier. Plenty of power, but the wheels spin too much.
Pros: Dependable drive train; works well; good price.
Cons: Cheaply built add-ons.
Jinma Crate Tractor
Model Year: 2006
I purchased the tractor mainly for snow clearing in the winter but I also acquired the FEL and backhoe as well as the snow blower. The tractor has been good. The usual hydraulic leaks fixed by replacing the o-rings. The only true is has been starting in the winter when it gets really cold (-20C). I fixed that by replacing the standard starter with the aftermarket version.
Pros: Value.
Cons: Leaks.
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Model Year: 2006
I purchased the tractor mainly for snow clearing in the winter but I also acquired the FEL and backhoe as well as the snow blower. The tractor has been good. The usual hydraulic leaks fixed by replacing the o-rings. The only true is has been starting in the winter when it gets really cold (-20C). I fixed that by replacing the standard starter with the aftermarket version.
Pros: Value.
Cons: Leaks.
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Okay Tractor
Model Year: 1999
I bought it to push snow, grade my driveway, and move dirt, gravel, and wood around. Breaks down a lot but, to be fair, I don't use it enough and when I do, I'm rough with it. Nice thing is, I can usually repair it myself. For the money I paid for it, it beats renting a machine when I need a tractor.
Pros: Price, performance when running.
Cons: Not particualrly well built, has to be used regularly or breaks down a lot.
Model Year: 1999
I bought it to push snow, grade my driveway, and move dirt, gravel, and wood around. Breaks down a lot but, to be fair, I don't use it enough and when I do, I'm rough with it. Nice thing is, I can usually repair it myself. For the money I paid for it, it beats renting a machine when I need a tractor.
Pros: Price, performance when running.
Cons: Not particualrly well built, has to be used regularly or breaks down a lot.
Jinma 254 Well Worth the Money
Model Year: 2007
I came across this tractor by chance and I was kinda looking around for a tractor but not real serious. Everything I liked was way out of my price range. This tractor was the right price, used very little and had a FEL on it, seemed to be just what I wanted, I bought it that day. Did a little research on the computer changed all the filters to wix, changed all the fluids and put a engine heater on it. Works like a champ.
Pros: Simple machine.
Cons: You need to do so research for parts, can't just go to auto store and buy head lamp.
Model Year: 2007
I came across this tractor by chance and I was kinda looking around for a tractor but not real serious. Everything I liked was way out of my price range. This tractor was the right price, used very little and had a FEL on it, seemed to be just what I wanted, I bought it that day. Did a little research on the computer changed all the filters to wix, changed all the fluids and put a engine heater on it. Works like a champ.
Pros: Simple machine.
Cons: You need to do so research for parts, can't just go to auto store and buy head lamp.
2007 Jinma Tractor
Model Year: 2007
This tractor overall has been okay. I had to set the valves tightened the head bolts. It has developed leaks in injection which had to be sealed. Several bolts have had to be thread locked. One of the fuse burn't in the box. I have replaces the fuses, fuel filter, oil filter, water hose and battery all with american made replacement which worked better at lower price. On the plus side is the features 4-wheel drive,easy to work on. The price was right however you get what you pay for.The advice and know how of the Chinese tractor forums and parts dealers has greatly helped with the maintenance of this tractor.
Pros: Price, 4- wheel , has never been stuck and always started, parts accessibility.
Cons: Poor quility, high maintenance, good power for a small tractor.
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Model Year: 2007
This tractor overall has been okay. I had to set the valves tightened the head bolts. It has developed leaks in injection which had to be sealed. Several bolts have had to be thread locked. One of the fuse burn't in the box. I have replaces the fuses, fuel filter, oil filter, water hose and battery all with american made replacement which worked better at lower price. On the plus side is the features 4-wheel drive,easy to work on. The price was right however you get what you pay for.The advice and know how of the Chinese tractor forums and parts dealers has greatly helped with the maintenance of this tractor.
Pros: Price, 4- wheel , has never been stuck and always started, parts accessibility.
Cons: Poor quility, high maintenance, good power for a small tractor.
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Jinma 254 Tractor
Model Year: 2009
I bought my Jinma 254 for our deer camp in upstate NY. We use it to mow, put in food plots, recover deer, maintain roads, you name it. You cannot beat the price, but be ready to repair and maintain. Not a tractor for those that do not want to get their hands dirty. I would also stay away from Chinese attachments, our rototiller is weak at best.
Pros: Value, simple to work on.
Cons: Upkeep.
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Model Year: 2009
I bought my Jinma 254 for our deer camp in upstate NY. We use it to mow, put in food plots, recover deer, maintain roads, you name it. You cannot beat the price, but be ready to repair and maintain. Not a tractor for those that do not want to get their hands dirty. I would also stay away from Chinese attachments, our rototiller is weak at best.
Pros: Value, simple to work on.
Cons: Upkeep.
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Jinma JM-254
Model Year: 2007
I use this tractor as a replacement for a 1942 Ford 2N. My experience with the tractor has been good. My experience with finding a dealer to supply technical information has been poor. I need center-of-gravity information and a wiring diagram and have not been able to obtain this information.
Pros: Easy to operate and thrifty on fuel.
Cons: A little lightweight and lack of technical support.
Model Year: 2007
I use this tractor as a replacement for a 1942 Ford 2N. My experience with the tractor has been good. My experience with finding a dealer to supply technical information has been poor. I need center-of-gravity information and a wiring diagram and have not been able to obtain this information.
Pros: Easy to operate and thrifty on fuel.
Cons: A little lightweight and lack of technical support.
Jinma
Model Year: 2007
Jinma 254 tractor with loader. Is it a John Deere? No, not even close. But for my use it works great. When I retired I purchased 5 acres. I have two that are for Deere, two wooded with tractor cut trails and one lawn. I use this tractor with the following attachments: middle bottom plow, 6 foot disc, 6 foot rough cutter, 6 foot snow blower and a 6 foot liberty backhoe. This tractor has done everything I ask of it and then some. I change fluids when required, and adjust clutch and she keeps on purring away. It's not a tractor for some city boy that needs his mama or dealer to fix when something needs attention, you need to be able to get your hands in the grease and oil and know what a wrench is for to make occasional adjustments to it and attachments.
Pros: Great value.
Cons: Need to be mechanically inclined.
Model Year: 2007
Jinma 254 tractor with loader. Is it a John Deere? No, not even close. But for my use it works great. When I retired I purchased 5 acres. I have two that are for Deere, two wooded with tractor cut trails and one lawn. I use this tractor with the following attachments: middle bottom plow, 6 foot disc, 6 foot rough cutter, 6 foot snow blower and a 6 foot liberty backhoe. This tractor has done everything I ask of it and then some. I change fluids when required, and adjust clutch and she keeps on purring away. It's not a tractor for some city boy that needs his mama or dealer to fix when something needs attention, you need to be able to get your hands in the grease and oil and know what a wrench is for to make occasional adjustments to it and attachments.
Pros: Great value.
Cons: Need to be mechanically inclined.
Jinma 254
Model Year: 2004
Tractor has been perfect for 8 years. Have had to do very little maintenance other than fluid changes and greasing. Has a ton of power and is very reliable. I suggest adding an in-hose heater in cold weather locations. Starting it without was very difficult prior. I use this tractor to push and pull junk cars around the lot and pull motors as well as mowing and general yard work. For the money you can't beat it. My neighbor has a girly man name brand tractor that he paid twice as much for and can't do 1/2 the work my Jinma can do. It does look prettier though.
Pros: Price, power, reliability.
Cons: Getting parts quickly, minor leaks in several places.
Model Year: 2004
Tractor has been perfect for 8 years. Have had to do very little maintenance other than fluid changes and greasing. Has a ton of power and is very reliable. I suggest adding an in-hose heater in cold weather locations. Starting it without was very difficult prior. I use this tractor to push and pull junk cars around the lot and pull motors as well as mowing and general yard work. For the money you can't beat it. My neighbor has a girly man name brand tractor that he paid twice as much for and can't do 1/2 the work my Jinma can do. It does look prettier though.
Pros: Price, power, reliability.
Cons: Getting parts quickly, minor leaks in several places.