Chinese Tractor Owners Association

Hello and welcome,

This site is full of info and has been very helpful for me as I am no a mechanical genius by any means.  I was kind of in the same dilema as you a few years back, not wanting to spend a fortune on some very old used tractor.  Kep looking and found the Nortracs.  My understanding is that thes are Northern Tool's branded tractor.  They delivered mine and I have been very happy with it.  The Nortracs are  really a Jinma tractor that is labeled Nortrac.  It appears Northern Tool is buying from a different manufacturer the last year as their catalog shows a differnt style tractor than what I had purchased. Their website is ** you don't have permission to see this link **

When I purchased, the tractor was assembled, serviced, and delivered, all very important to me.  If you have a garage and time and talent, there are less expensive routes to obtain this type of tractor.  The dealer/supporters of this site seem to be very knowledgable, and perhaps they will chime in to give you more info.

I would suggest to you, that it would be good if you had some mechanical knowledge and abilities and the willingness to perform some maintenence with these tractors.  I have had very little problems with mine, but things come up, and if you build a crate tractor, basically you are the dealer, and you are at the mercy of others if something goes wrong.  (That is were this site is helpful.)

I have not rode my tractor real hard, but it has been worth every penny I spent on it. It is the 25hp with loader.  I chose the 25 because of a tighter turning radius.  I am constantly amazed at the traction and the pulling power of this tractor.  However, If is were to do it again, I probably would go to a 35hp, just because.

I probably not a good source for a whole lot of info, but I am sure the other guys will show up shortly to answer more specific questions.  Good luck to you. 

Thanks for the information. I don't have a problem building one since I build street rods in my spare time. i was thinking I might just go threw a dealer to get one for the less hassle. I wonder if a dealer would ship me a built one to upstate NY and what the cost would be. I know i would like to go for the larger model I figure it's better to go big then work twice as hard or mess up the machine pushing it too hard. I just can not come to terms with paying 15k for a 6 year old tractor when i can get a larger newer one for less.

I agree with what you said about not trying to use it like a dozer. I was going to use the BH to break the ground and then swing around and scoop it up. with the larger model move some good size rocks? I have a ton and tired of cutting around them.

thanks agin

 Gary

I have the 354 and am impressed at the work it can do. There are some limitations but for the money it is well worth it. The technology is basically 1960 (standard shift) or so without hydrostatic nor shuttle benefits.

As with any front loader it helps to have some counter weight on the back to make grading and transport easier. The backhoe works well, an implement, or a counter weight.

I would recommend a frame mounted backhoe instead of the 3 point hitch style. It will prove better in the long run for more difficult digging and less danger of breaking three point hitch mounts. The frame mount BH takes about an hour or less to remove and reinstall the lift arms for three point hitch mounts.

I have a Jinma BH and I agree with the recommendation to look at another company BH. One has to remove the hydraulic pump (which mounts in a separate location than the PTO)  with the backhoe and it makes more sense to get a PTO pump if you have to change from backhoe to other implements a lot.

I purchased a two bottom 16" plow to break up earth prior to grading. I also bought a used five foot rototiller that does an excellent finish job.

Post edited 1:22 pm – July 24, 2011 by Len10

I bought a tractor form China Depot about one year ago and I couldn't be happier with both the tractor and service provided by China Depot. I have a Terra Cyclone TC254 with a backhoe and loader.  I assembled it myself to save money, but China Depot does offer assembly.  I'm not a mechanic and I knew nothing about hydraulics at the time. Much of what I know about tractors I've learned from this site. Terra Cyclone is made by Luzhong, not a very common brand in the U.S. but similar in design to many other Chinese tractors.  The engine is made by Laidong, so parts are readily available.  This is the first tractor I've ever owned or used for that mater, so I have nothing to compare it to.  It has a Chinese backhoe which I am satisfied with, but again I've never used a backhoe before. If I ever try a Korean or U.S. made backhoe I might change my mind about being satisfied.  My only complaint is the backhoe is connected via a 3 point hitch.  I plan to fabricate a sub-frame, but I have to learn to weld first!

China Depot also sells Jinma tractors (assebled or crated).  I chose the Terra Cyclone because it was so much cheaper.  Before I purchased my tractor I spent months researching Chinese tractors.  No other dealer could even come close to the low price I paid, although I think the price has gone up since I purchased it.  China Depot is run by a father and son, and I have to say they are both great to work with.  Initially I had some reservations about the low price, but there were no hidden costs and they continue to back the tractor.

  Hudson Forest Equipment, Barnsville NY, Used to sell the Jinma's. Saw them at the Woodsman's Field days in Boonsville NY Aug of last year. Will be there in Aug this year. Don't see them on their Website now though. They did have one used for sale on there Website

  Bolton Power Equipment in Bolton MA sells AG Boss [rebadged Jinmas] along with Koyker FEL's and Backhoe's. Good to deal with, bought my 2004 284 Tractor from him.

  Both sell them fully assembled I believe, but go on their website and ask if they sell crate