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About Us

Who is J.Thomas?

J.Thomas Distributors has been in business for over twenty years.  As the leader in the engineering, manufacturing, and distribution of replacement parts for commercial lawn and snow equipment, J.Thomas guarantees parts of only the highest quality.  With a focus on saving our customers money while offering premier customer service, J.Thomas continues to provide convenient ordering and same day shipping to get you the parts you need - fast.


What are J.Thomas' business hours?

For your convenience, our customer service representatives are available from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. EST.  Our toll-free fax and online ordering options are available 24 hours a day. Counter pick-up hours are 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.


How can I contact J.Thomas?

To speak with an order representative or service technician, call us at 800-828-7980 or 248-412-2180.  To fax an order, use the toll-free line 800-422-4184 or 248-449-1735.  You also can feel free to e-mail us at any time at sales@j-thomas.com.  

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Where is J.Thomas located?

J.Thomas' physical and mailing address is:
     
     43500 Gen-Mar
     Novi, MI 48375


How can I get a J.Thomas Master Catalog?

Simply click on the FREE Catalog link here or at the top, fill out and submit your address, and we'll rush you our most recent Master Catalog for FREE!  You may also call us at 800-828-7980 and request a copy over the phone.

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Saving Money with J.Thomas


How can I save off OEM pricing?

Save up to 50% off OEM Pricing!  Look for volume pricing throughout our print and online catalog to take advantage of our quantity discounts and save! 


What is the Gold Program?

Start saving today with our Buyers Advantage Program!  

To qualify for the Gold Program, simply order $1000.00 or more and receive a 10% discount* on your initial order, free shipping on your initial order, an 8% discount* on all orders until the end of the year, monthly specials, a personal customer service representative, quarterly promotions, same day shipping, and deliveries in 2 days or less!

*Discounts do not apply to products on sale, volume discounted items, items valued over $250.00, or snow plow parts.  

IMPORTANT!  Engines and items over $250.00 do not apply towards the invoice total necessary to qualify you for a discount program.

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How can I save money by carrying a spare tire? 

Consider this: in the middle of your fourth job of the day, a tire goes flat.  As a result, you can expect 2 hours of down time at $30.00 per hour, which equals $60.00, plus the time it puts you behind!

BUT, if you have a spare on hand (such as a JT-98915 complete tire assembly for $24.99), you'll save $35.01, plus it keeps you on schedule!

Be ready to repair on the go, wherever the job takes you.  It's money in your pocket! 

How can I save time AND money?

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Ordering from J.Thomas


How do I place an order?

EASY - call, fax, or click!  Call in your order to 800-828-7980, fax your order form to 800-422-4184, or click on the order link here or at the top and submit an online order form. 


Is ordering from your web site secure?

For your protection and privacy, we've joined efforts with our web site host to secure all forms on j-thomas.com with a 128-bit encryption level.  This ensures that your sensitive information only goes to authorized users at J.Thomas when you submit orders/applications. 


What if I don't see what I need in the master catalog?

Please call to speak with one of our helpful order representatives who can assist you in finding exactly what you need.  We also offer many items that do not appear in our catalog.  Contact us with your original equipment manufacturers (OEM) part number and we will advise you on the availability of the item.  We are able to supply all engine manufacturer replacement parts for Kohler, Kawasaki, Briggs & Stratton, Honda, Tecumseh, and Kubota.  In addition, we offer all replacement parts for Echo equipment and most major equipment manufacturers items.

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What if I have a question regarding a product's pricing?

We are constantly searching for ways to hold down prices and offer the best quality parts.  However, prices and availability do change.  Therefore, all prices and product availability is subject to change without notice.  If a price is not agreeable to you, the item may be returned for full credit.  Please call to speak with an order representative regarding an item's pricing if you still have a question or concern.


What happens if there is a catalog error?

Information in our catalog is reviewed carefully, however, occasional errors may appear.  Therefore, we reserve the right to correct any erroneous information and are not responsible for typographical errors.  Please call to speak with an order representative regarding this issue if you still have a question or concern.


What are OEM part numbers?

Where indicated, original equipment manufacturers (OEM) part numbers are used for identification purposes only.  OEM names are used only for reference purposes.  The references in the catalog to manufacturer's trademarks, drawings, colors, and part numbers are for the purpose of identifying J.Thomas Distributors part numbers which may be used in lieu of corresponding parts made by the identified manufacturers.


What are my payment options?

Credit Cards - We accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover and American Express.  Please have your credit card number, expiration date, name and address of the credit card holder and the 3 digit security code from the back of the card ready when you call to place your order.

Your J.Thomas Account - Open an account with us simply by filling out our credit application.  Click here to print out a J. Thomas Credit Application in pdf format. Fill out the form and fax it to us.

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When will my order be shipped?

Order today and we'll ship today!  Order as late as 5:00 p.m. EST and your order will be shipped the same day.  We offer coast-to-coast shipping, including Canada.  See the map below for approximate delivery days by region.  


 

What will my shipping charges be?

$10.00 flat shipping rate on internet orders shipped in the Continental United States Only. Engines, cutting edges, and equipment DO NOT qualify for $10.00 flat shipping rate.  Shipping charges are based on package weight as well as distance to zip code destination.  Next day and second day air service available for an extra charge.  

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What is J.Thomas' return, guarantee, and warranty policy?

100% Satisfaction Guarantee - If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, call us immediately.  We will pick up your item which does not meet your expectations and give you a refund.

30-Day Warranty -  All items carry a 30-day warranty, except items warranted by nationwide manufacturers.  Please ask for detailed warranty information on your purchase.

Returns - If you are not satisfied with your purchase, call us at 800-828-7980 within 30 days of delivery and we will mail a Return Authorization along with a call tag if the item was defective, a warranty consideration, or shipped incorrectly.  Items with an automatic freight charge must be returned at the purchaser's expense. 
All other returns must have a Return Authorization number and be sent back to us.  A 15% restocking fee may be charged.  Obsolete or items not in salable condition may be refused.  After we receive the item, a refund will be issued on resalable merchandise.  The manufacturer's warranty may be used to address certain issues, in lieu of a return.  Electrical items are not returnable.


What happens if an item is backordered?

98% of all our orders are shipped without backorders!  Backorders less than $10.00 are cancelled, please reorder.  Backordered items are shipped freight free unless the item is noted with shipping charges.

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What should I do if my shipment is incomplete?

All Shortages Must Be Reported Within 5 Days of Delivery 

If your order arrives incomplete, please check the contents of the package thoroughly against the invoice for any backordered items.  If you find discrepancies, please call us at 800-828-7980.


What should I do if my shipment is damaged?

All Damages Must Be Reported Within 5 Days of Delivery

If your UPS, Federal Express, or Airborne shipment is received damaged, please sign the delivery receipt as "damaged" or notify the local office of the shipper immediately.  Advise us at 800-828-7980 so we may reship the merchandise and place a claim. 

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Technical Questions


What should I do if I need technical support?

If you need tech support regarding your equipment or parts purchased from J.Thomas, please call 800-828-7980 and ask to speak with a service technician, or e-mail your question to sales@j-thomas.com.  


What should I inspect on my equipment on a daily basis?

To prevent major repairs and keep up with routine maintenance, it is necessary to check your equipment's overall condition by performing a daily visual inspection of the following items: 

• Air Cooling System • Safety Interlock
• Air Filter • Seat Adjustment
• Battery Electrolyte Level • Tire Pressure
• Belts • Choke Control
• Engine Coolant • Deflector Shields
• Engine Fuel • Excessive Grease Accumulation
• Engine Oil • Gauges
• Equipment Fasteners • Ignition Switch
• Fuel Shut-Off Value • Leaks
• Hydraulic Fluid • Mower Lift Levers
• Mower Blades • PTO Switch
• Power Wash Unit After Use • Throttle Lever


Can J.Thomas recommend a maintenance schedule for my equipment?

Different working conditions may require a different maintenance schedule, so keep in mind that these are only general guidelines for maintenance. 

         Description                              Schedule

                                                                     
Air Filter...........................................50-100 Hours
Battery Electrolyte Level....................When Low
Belts................................................250 Hours
Engine Coolant.................................400 Hours
Engine Oil........................................100 Hours
Equipment Fasteners........................When Worn
Fuel Filter........................................100 Hours
Fuel Shut-Off Valve...........................400 Hours
Grease Unit.....................................16 Hours
Hydraulic Filter.................................400 Hours
Hydraulic Fluid.................................400 Hours
Mower Blades..................................24 Hours
Safety Interlock................................When Worn
Seat Adjustment..............................When Worn
Spark Plugs....................................250 Hours
Spindle Bearings.............................1000 Hours


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What do I need to know about my engine when ordering?

Please have your engine model and type numbers available when ordering.  Please verify with your customer service representative that you are ordering the correct replacement engine.  If the incorrect engine is ordered it is returned at the purchaser's expense.  Click here to go to the engine section of the catalog.


What is the difference between an engine short block and a mini block?

 A short block contains a crankshaft, pistons, rods, and gasket set.  A mini block contains only the pistons, rods, and gasket set.  


Where is the carburetor number located on my carburetor?

To identify the proper carburetor, examine the side of the carburetor to locate the carburetor number.  The carburetor number is usually two letters followed by two or three numbers (i.e.: WA-80).


How can I get more out of my assemblies? 

Greasing Assemblies 

  • Keep assemblies cool.  This prolongs the bearing life by helping the sealed bearings to retain their pre-lube grease.
  • Do not remove the bearing seals.  Removing the seals allows contaminated grease into the bearing.
  • Use sealed bearings to stop old grease from entering the bearing. 

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How do I measure the length of my blades?

Measure your blade's length diagonally from tip to tip.


What else do I need to know about my blades?

  • Replace blades when large nick(s) appear or when lift edge is noticeably worn.  Click here to shop the blade section of our catalog.
  • Sharpen blades with a Rotary Blade Grinder every 10-20 hours or when you see nicks or an eroded cutting edge.
  • Mower blade cutting surface should be maintained in a straight line.
  • Sharpen the beveled edges of the blade.
  • Care should be taken to keep the same angle of the cutting surface.
  • When sharpening, grind enough material to remove any nicks and to sharpen the blade – do not remove more than 3/8” of material from blade, if more than 3/8” of material is removed, the blade should be discarded.
  • Blades should be balanced using a mechanical balancer. Unbalanced blades will cause vibrations leading to premature spindle bearing failure.


What should I do if my clutch needs to be replaced? 

Don't worry!  You want 'em, we got 'em!  Replace your clutches with our top quality Ogura and Warner Electric Clutches (and replacement clutches for most applications) by shopping our clutch section of our catalog, calling 800-828-7980, or faxing 800-422-4184 with your order form.

Most clutches can be delivered Next Day for just an additional $20.00!   

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Does J.Thomas have any tech tips regarding batteries?

  • Check electrolyte level, inspect for loose cables
  • Clean terminals


Does J.Thomas have any tech tips regarding belts?

  • Be certain all power sources are turned off or disconnected before installing any belt.
  • Replace belts when edges are frayed or cracked. Watch for splitting caused by dryness.
  • When checking belts, also check the idler pulley and springs.
  • Did you know that J.Thomas belts are engineered to the same specifications as OEM belts?  Circle J™ Belts are manufactured by Dayco or Goodyear, and are guaranteed to meet your expectations!  Start saving money today and order Circle J™!  Click here to shop the belt section of our catalog.  


Does J.Thomas have any tech tips regarding changing a hydro pump or motor?

Just replacing the part doesn't always finish the job.  To get longer life and better performance from your repairs, repair with care - take the time to make it last!  Remember these simple steps to ensure trouble-free replacements of your hydro pump or motor:   

  • Be sure to clean the entire fluid system. 
  • Pressure and hydraulic return lines must be removed and flushed out with mineral spirits. 
  • Flush out the tank.
  • Replace the hydraulic filter with a fresh, new hydraulic filter.
  • Click here to shop the pump section of our catalog.

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Does J.Thomas have any tech tips regarding general maintenance?

  • Equipment should be cleaned on a regular basis. Grass clippings and other debris should be removed daily with compressed air or power washed.

Brakes

  • Test brakes for adequate stopping
  • Check rods for straightness, check cables and fittings for proper operation
  • Check parking brake

Safety Interlock System

  • Check to make sure it is functioning properly – machine does not start unless seated or operator is present

PTO Clutch Engagement and Disengagement 

  • Tighten all hardware securely
  • Engage and disengage at 1/3 of regular engine RPM

Does J.Thomas have any tech tips regarding lubrication?

  • Keeping your equipment well lubricated can reduce your chance of equipment failure due to worn parts because of friction and internal wear
  • Always mix two cycle oil to recommended ratio by equipment manufacturer or use Intermix® multi ratio.  Click here to shop the lubricant section of our catalog.
  • Check manufacturer’s suggested oil viscosity and always use an automotive high grade motor oil to extend engine life.
  • Lubricate equipment every 8 to 10 hours. Lubricate spindles and caster daily. Listen for squealing and watch for sticking of moving parts
  • Lubricate grease fittings every 50 hours. Mark location with fluorescent paint for easy identification. Refer to owners manual for locations of pivot points, wheel bearings, axles supports.
  • High temp grease is a must for spindle bearings. Greasing the spindle assembly provides necessary lubrication to components. More importantly, it diffuses the heat generated at the assemblies, which keeps it cooler and prevents premature wear.

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Does J.Thomas have any tech tips regarding mower decks?

Leveling the Mower Deck 

  • Various adjustments are necessary to correctly level the mower deck. Operators should consult their owners’ manual for specific instructions to correctly level the deck.


Does J.Thomas have any tech tips regarding storage?

  • Shut off fuel valve.
  • Allow unit to cool down.
  • Do not store unit inside with fuel in the fuel tank with ignition sources present.
  • For long term storage, drain all fuel and clean equipment.

Does J.Thomas have any tech tips regarding tires?

  • Check air pressure frequently for proper inflation.  Click here to shop the Zero Flat® section of our catalog.
  • Carry an extra can of tire sealant for emergencies.  Click here to shop the tire sealant section of our catalog.
  • Use caution when strapping equipment down on trailers – too much downward pressure can cause sidewall damage.


Does J.Thomas have any tech tips regarding transport?

  • Secure unit chassis to truck or trailer
  • Block wheels and use ratchet straps
  • Shut off fuel valve
  • Set parking brake
  • Major equipment damage may occur during equipment transport

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Still have a question? 

E-mail us at sales@j-thomas.com or call 1-800-828-7980 for assistance.  Thank you!

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