Kama (TS) vs Foton or Jinma

gettincold · Aug 29, 2007

Hello All:

I am just curious as to peoples impressions of the Kama (Taishan)35 hp versus the Foton or Jinma products as to quality, durability and overall impression.

I have been considering buying a Chinese tractor for a while but have not yet made the plunge.

Your input would be appreciated.

Thanks

Joe

bjr · Aug 30, 2007

You're probably researched and seen the posts 'bout all the post purchase flushing and bolt tigthtening. I did a crate JM-354 Jinma. 1st thing convert that little fuel tank shut off to a standard 1/4" needle valve so some fuel can get to the engine. 2nd thing convert the hydraulic suction filter to a screen of somekind, there's different style on this. I don't know of the exact differences between the 3 machines one of the posting venders here can fill in there, but, as far as getting my moneys worth for a useable 4 wheel tractor it's been a great investment. I have spent serious money on 3pt attachments for it also. I didn't get squat as far as a warranty, didn't need it and didn't want it. I surely didn't want to pay for the extra big name dealer overhead either. With the chinese tractor I bought as soon as the vender got the check in his hand it was my tractor and my problem, I knew that and it was okay. I use to turn wrenchs for living so maintenance and repair didn't scare me. My vender did send me some hood bracket parts for free, to be fair. I've had my tractor coming up on 5yrs. maybe 1000 hrs on it. The one thing I credit longer no breakdowns period is I didn't get a FEL on this tractor. I won't belabor the point but in MY opinion the FEL has cause a lot of grief for people. This is just snapshot kind of a review. bjr

zogman · Aug 30, 2007

I bought a Kama TS354C from Chip at Artrac and it has had some problems but nothing I couldn't do myself. Bolt tightening is a given. I do think having a good dealer with a parts supply is a must for most. My biggest problem was rust in the fuel tank which clogged the fuel system and ultimately fouled two injectors, Artrac sent me new ones under warranty. I did have a slow leaking head gasket but it wasn't real hard to replace, also under warranty. I am still very happy with my choice even with the issues mentioned. I bought a lot of tractor for not a lot of money. I know when I get all the kinks ironed out over the next year I will be running strong for years to come.

I don't know a bunch about the other makes but from what I can tell the Kama seems more suited for loader work because the front end is beefier. My Kama is very strong, handles very well and is comfortable to drive for hours at a time.

No matter which one you buy you need to take the time to go over the entire tractor and tighten bolts, learn what fluids to check and where all the zirc fittings are, I seem to find a new one every week! Make sure all the fluids are fresh and ask questions here if you aren't sure about something. These tractors are "Hobby" tractors because it is a hobby to maintain them. Most everyone here is patient and extremely helpful because they have been where you are now.

Good luck with your purchase.

SPIKER · Aug 31, 2007

I too have had my jinma 284 for 5+ yrs only got 350 hrs or so, but all have been very hard, I got a crate tractor and no support, like above I know how to work on things and are not afraid to get into something to fix it. I have no experience with the kamas or TS but hear good things. lots of posts about how to FIX this or that here and on CTOA and NYCTOA sites. this is mainly due to people like me who have a problem and ask questions and also give answers. no since re-inventing the wheel if someone already done it and has tips & pointers to help out a new guy! I did get a FEL with mine and NEEDED it. but also it as been the main abuse factor in 95% of my problems over the last 5 years... I also have std gear drive with out the shuttle shift, (wasn't option back then) but would have made a world of difference with all the FEL work I've done. my tractor has been 50% bull dozer and it shows it's wear but OK so far, needing a clutch adjustment as I did so much abuse on it with the BULL DOZER attempts...

anyhow changing fluids checking head torque & loosening bolts are just part of it. using common sense is also a BIG part of it too that is where asking questions first is important and so far you are going great on that one.

mark M

gettincold · Sep 6, 2007

Thank you for your posts

Based on the posts I assume they are all, (the various manufactures) fairly similiar in most respects.

Thanks,

Joe

bluechip · Sep 7, 2007

The main advantage of the Taishan over JInma is the availablility of shuttle shift or creeper in the 35HP size machine. Jinma does not offer either. Foton is pricey (compared ot the other chinese manufacturers) in this size as they really start at 40/50HP class chassis and then drop to a 25HP machine. Foton have excellent fit and finish.

I would recommend a direct injection engine, especially in your climate. That means the 3 cylinder option in the jinma (Jaingsu Jaingdong TY395). Same engine is also available in the TS354X model from Taishan. Much better starting than the yangdong Y485 engine. TheYD485 pre epa engine was direct injection and not the same as the Y485D that is the same swirl chamber as the Y385 popular in 25HP machines.

Another brand you didn't mention is DongFeng. The distribution channels for this tractor are being re-established in North America. In Canada, it is sold as Taskmaster, you might want to take a look. We are offering them under our AgTrac brand name in the states. The Changchai engines are great, direct injection but not as complex emissions system as the TY395. the fit and finish is similar to Foton and factory support is unmatched (from an importers perspective) (sorry no crate sales available).

A GOOD local dealer can make a world of difference in a satsifactory ownership experience if problems arise.

Hope this longwinded post is helpful.

gettincold · Sep 25, 2007

Thanks Bluechip (Chip)

I appreciate your response and your time. I read many threads and appreciate how many times you "veterans" respond, likely several times to the same question over a few years!

I believe the tractor offered is a 4 cyclinder so it may not be as cooperative in cold weather, as you have indicated, though my kids are generally the same on a cold morning, I wish I could plug them in!

I am not sure what the import implications are for a tractor going from the US to Canada. Does it happen?

At any rate thank you for your responses,...the debate continues new kitchen vs new tractor! Only the strong shall prevail.

Regards to all!

Gettincold