instrument problems

Trains1938 · Apr 1, 2020

Hi, I have Jinma 284 Tractor that I bought used. I was told that the instrument panel did not work. Only the amp gauge shows a little movement. What could be wrong? I have noticed that the head lights don't either. I was not told about that.

Roadworthy · Apr 2, 2020

The things which COULD be wrong are too numerous to list without looking at your tractor. Start with the things you can know or learn. Begin with the battery - have it load tested. Charge it. Clean the battery terminals and the clamps that connect to them. Be sure the wires where they enter the connectors are not corroded or broken. Be sure you have a good frame ground attached to the battery. Does anything on the panel work yet? Now you may start with your headlights if you wish. See if you have power to the headlights themselves. They could be burned out. Hopefully you begin to get the idea. You have to go at it a piece at a time. What part doesn't work? Why?

piper184 · Apr 2, 2020

Your problem sounds like it might just be a fuse. The fuse holders are notoriously troublesome, at least on my tractor.
Do you have a schematic for your tractor? If not, you can see one here: http://harnerfarm.net/Jinma/Files/17-electrical-system.pdf
There is also a troubleshooting guide and diagram starting on page 56 here: http://harnerfarm.net/Jinma/Files/JINMA20-30A.pdf The numbers in parenthesis are the wire numbers, should be little yellow tags at each end of the wire.
You will need to start tracing circuits from the battery outward. A test light will work, but a multi-meter is much more useful as it will display voltages and can be used to test resistances.
The wiring on these tractors is barely adequate when new, as they age the wiring breaks down easily. Wires are undersized and terminals are not the best quality.
That being said, the wiring is extremely simple and easy to replace with quality components.
Best of luck and let us know if you have any questions as you go along.