Calling all Jinma Users

[john_t]

I really want a tractor with live hydraulics and PTO , diesel engine, power steering... the works.
Like I said, this is what I want. I dont need it.
I have a couple acres, one horse and a 1952 8N with front loader. Life is good.
Still, I want a new tractor and am leaning precariously toward the Jinma 284.
I've read the pros (price) and cons (fit/finish, electrical components, and supposed general low quality).
So my question is to those of you who actually own and use these tractors and have spent your own money on them.
ARE they any good? would you buy another? Do you regret not getting a used JD or Ford etc? If I get one I'm going to do the crate thing.
Any input is appreciated. I'm wavering here.
John

 

[Tractor_Barn]

You did it now, John. Check <A target="_blank" HREF=http://ctoa.net>http://ctoa.net</A> for more info on users input and maintenance issues. All I can add is that I'm impressed daily at what these tractors are capable of.

 

[SHIFTY]

John T
Theise machines are a good value for the money,they work hard and run strong,if you ever have any issues they will proubally be very minor,proubally no different than what your use to and best of all,Brushhogging with a live pto and having power steering and a diesel engine,that will be a nice treat for you compared to the 8n,parts are a non issue for theise machines from small shops to national mail orded companies in the US,I know that Mike stuart has helped out many for parts and advice on the new and older units,Their are many dealers out their ,just find one that your comfortable with and go with it

 

[MikeStuart]

I don't just sell tractors, I use them. I own an old two-cylinder 204 without power steering. It is my favorite tractor. I still think the 204's are better than the 254's (no real evidence, just my opinion) For the size, it can't be beat. The problems I had with it were very minor. If I had taken some time when I bought it to check it out, and if I knew then what I know now, I wouldn't have had any problems. If you can stand to tighten bolts and wires when you first buy it, you'll be very happy with your purchase. If those minor types of things will drive you crazy, don't get one. If you buy one in a crate, take your time and really check it out, it will be worth it. If you are concerned about re-sale and apparel options, don't buy it. I don't even sell JM's right now, so I don't have a chance at selling one to you, but I wouldn't hesitate to buy one if the deal was right.

 

[SPIKER]

Hi John T:

I own and have brought into the US my own container of JM tractors I opted for the JM284 myself. I have assembled 2 of them and had a few issues such as fit & finish & gauge problems. Nothing that I even worry about for the most part because of the way I've been using mine.

I have started up a small time dealer outlet, mostly selling crate tractors that people assemble themselves. I will be ordering more come this next early spring but not for a bit. I'm in Ohio northern part above Mansfield. If you are looking to save money and can take you're time assembling in a safe environment then it is defiantly the way to go! The 2nd one I assembled took about 25 hrs from start to finish with Front-end loader installed ROPS and Sunshade. 1st one took me longer though maybe 35 hrs but I was being very cautious.

Hope that helps

Mark M