Yanmar vs. Jinma

paulray · Jun 26, 2008

Hi there folks, I'm thinking about buying one of the above mentioned tractors and was hoping that those familiar with them could shed some light and some opinions on it. I know it is from 1979-1981, 45 HP, 4WD. The one I'm looking at has just over 2000 hours and will put a FEL loader on it. Total cost will be $11,400.

The Jinma is the Chinese tractor 35HP, 4WD, Power stearing, With a FEL, ROPS, canopy, no hours it will be $13,000. Comes from a very reputible man near me in TN.

So...any opinions?

Thanks.

PR

(PS I also posted this on the Yanmar board. I hope I am not breaking any rules.)

Ranch_Hand_Supp · Jun 26, 2008

Don't know what engine's in the Jinma you are looking at?? But, if it has / gets a good prep before use it should make you a good tractor.

Check around for price and availability for a water pump , starter, Alt, clutch, filters etc for the two and compare repair / maintenance cost.

Ronald
Ranch Hand Supply

greg_g · Jun 27, 2008

Can only guess which 79-81 Yanmar model, perhaps the 3810D? If so, that's gray market - and I'm pretty sure it's 42hp. And gray market means no ROPS as well.

I believe you'll find parts support much better for the Jinma. And 2000 hours versus zero hours for the same price? I'd call that a no-brainer. I say same price, because I'm pretty sure you can do better than $13K. See Jinma Dealer, Wood Chipper , Compact Jinma Tractors for a representative tractor price, and TractorConnection.com for Tractor value! for one already loader-equipped.

//greg//

bjr · Jun 27, 2008

I owned a JM354, crate tractor (put together myself), for 5 yrs, working small 1/2-1 acre gardens and pastures. That's tilling, ploughing, discing and mowing. Been a good tractor and the only Jinma parts needed so far were lug nuts for the wheels and I got them from Jinmaparts dot com. I did modify the engine oil filter to take a Ford oil filter and also modified the hydrualic suction strainer and replaced Jinma alternator with a Delco SI 10 junk yard alternator. I did all the recommended oil changes and have adjusted the clutch several times. I have put about a 1000 hrs on it. I recommend the tractors. The thing is, though scrutinize the loader mounts and don't go cheap on those. I don't have a FEL and DON'T want one. Too many postings on broken tractors. $13000 sounds a little steep, I'd shop around a little more, but the Jinma 354 will serve you well. Just be prepared to do your own maintenance though. bjr

greg_g · Jun 27, 2008

And if you're anywhere within reasonable driving distance of a Rural King ( https://www.ruralking.com/Company/Locations/Locations.aspx ) you can get a 40hp 4wd Foton with an American-made loader for $12.6K or less ( tractorPg_05 ). I say (possibly) less, because at one time they were offering a 10% discount and 12 interest-free months for the first purchase on their store credit card. My own experience with them is that they offer a good price, but at the expense of quality parts support and service after sale.

That said, dealers like Ronald may charge a bit more - but it can pay off in the long run - for markedly better parts support and service after sale.

//greg//

racincrazy · Jun 28, 2008

The Yanmar may not have a live PTO. I just know the ones I looked at before didn't have a live PTO.

paulray · Jun 28, 2008

I appreciate everyone's advice, both here and on the Yanmar forum (as well as on other websites) but after 1 year of looking and learning I decided on the Jinma. It has all of the features and power I need and want and with a new bush hog and post hole digger I'm in for under 11,500. The man I am buying from is very good, I spoke with a few of his customers and everyone is very satisfied.

I have used this forum as well as others and sure do appreciate everyone's opinions and advice. I feel that I made a good decision based on all available facts and keeping in mind the type of work I will be doing, which is mainly upkeep of 7 acres. I'm not a farmer, just wnat to keep my property looking good and keep my wife's pastures in good shape for her horses.

I'll be in touch, I'm sure. Can't wait until the end of the week when I finally get my tractor!

Paul