Jinma 254 Hard starting

[RonMar]

I have a Nortrac 254 and installed a 750 watt Zerostart tank type heater, plumbed outlet of heater to thermostat housing, inlet to heater is connected to block drain. Plugged in for 30 min with ambient temp at 20 deg the engine starts like its 85 deg outside, saves wear and tear on starter. I have had this setup for 8 years starts everytime

I put in a 1KW exactly the same way. Warms the head and block nicely and makes cold starts clean and quick...

 

[timkirby]

Several years ago I installed a coolant heater in my Jinma 284. It has made all the difference in the world in cold weather starting my tractor. The heater is installed into the lower radiator hose by removing a ~ 2 inch piece of the radiator hose and inserting the heater. On cold days I plug it into a 120 line 45 - 90 minutes before I start the tractor. The heating element in the heater warms the engine coolant which in turn warms the engine block and the oil. With the engine pre-warmed a bit it starts easily. I can't remember the brand name of the heater but I bought it at Tractor Supply.