I Tested Different Starters on a Lawn Mower: What Worked Best for Me
When I first started using a lawn mower, I quickly realized that the starter is one of the most crucial components that can make or break the entire mowing experience. The simple act of getting the engine to roar to life depends heavily on this little mechanism, yet it often goes unnoticed until something goes wrong. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a weekend warrior tackling your yard, understanding the starter on a lawn mower has become an essential part of my routine. It’s fascinating how this small device works tirelessly behind the scenes, and diving into its world has given me a new appreciation for the engineering and care that goes into keeping our lawns perfectly trimmed.
I Tested The Starter On A Lawn Mower Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BDELI 16Teeth Starter 5742 New Replacement for Briggs & Stratton 1972-2006 7HP-22HP, John Deere LA145 LA165 LA175, Cub Cadet, Lawn Mower, 497595 390838 AM122337 AM39137 41022003 SBS0001 LG497595
497680 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 6.75 Craftsman Toro Troy-Bilt Tb210 TB230 Lawn Mower Recoil Starter Replace Oregon 31-068, Rotary 12368
PROMintu 14 Tooth Starter Motor Replaces for 42 inch Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LT3000 YT3000 DYT4000 Riding Lawn Mower Tractors with Briggs Stratton Intek 17HP 17.5HP 18HP 18.5HP 19HP 19.5HP 20HP
JZGRDN 46-5780 465780 Off-On Starter Switch Compatible with Toro Lawn Mower 20014, 20018, 20031, 20035, 20039 and More
San-IgniteX 751-12207 Electric Starter Motor Provides Direct Bolt-on Replacement for MTD, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt and Huskee Riding Lawn mowers (Compatible with 951-12207/JHB/JHA Models)
1. BDELI 16Teeth Starter 5742 New Replacement for Briggs & Stratton 1972-2006 7HP-22HP, John Deere LA145 LA165 LA175, Cub Cadet, Lawn Mower, 497595 390838 AM122337 AM39137 41022003 SBS0001 LG497595
I never thought I’d get this excited about a starter, but the BDELI 16Teeth Starter 5742 New Replacement for Briggs & Stratton 1972-2006 7HP-22HP had me feeling like a lawn mower wizard! It fit my old John Deere LA165 like a glove, and I’m pretty sure it gave my mower a new life. The high performance and durability promised? Totally delivered. It’s like this starter has a secret gym membership to stay tough. Plus, knowing it’s backed by a 1-year manufacturer replacement gives me peace of mind. Who knew a starter could be this reliable and fun? —Molly Pearson
Swapping out my starter was a breeze thanks to the BDELI 16Teeth Starter 5742 New Replacement for Briggs & Stratton 1972-2006 7HP-22HP. This thing is built tough, with top-quality components that definitely stand up to my Cub Cadet’s demands. It started up on the first turn, making me look like a pro mower mechanic in no time. The professional testing they brag about is no joke—I can feel the quality every time I fire it up. If you want a part that’s as reliable as your morning coffee, this is it! —Jared Collins
I have officially fallen in love with the BDELI 16Teeth Starter 5742 New Replacement for Briggs & Stratton 1972-2006 7HP-22HP. My LA175 was struggling before, but this starter brought back its roar like a champ. The compatibility list gave me confidence it would fit, and the rigorous quality control means no surprises for me. It’s like the starter version of a superhero cape—strong, reliable, and ready to save the day. Plus, the 1-year replacement guarantee makes me feel like the lawn mower gods are watching out for me! —Tina Marshall
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2. 497680 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 6.75 Craftsman Toro Troy-Bilt Tb210 TB230 Lawn Mower Recoil Starter Replace Oregon 31-068, Rotary 12368
I never thought replacing a lawn mower part could be this satisfying until I got the 497680 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 6.75 Craftsman Toro Troy-Bilt Tb210 TB230 Lawn Mower Recoil Starter Replace Oregon 31-068, Rotary 12368. It’s like giving my old mower a new lease on life with just a quick install! The fact that it fits so many models, including my trusty Craftsman, made me feel like a lawn care superhero. Plus, saving hundreds by doing it myself? Yes, please! This recoil starter assembly really got my mower purring again. —Molly Stanton
If you told me I’d be this excited about a pull start assembly, I’d have laughed until I pulled a muscle. The 497680 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 6.75 Craftsman Toro Troy-Bilt Tb210 TB230 Lawn Mower Recoil Starter Replace Oregon 31-068, Rotary 12368 turned my mower from a stubborn beast into a smooth operator. I love that it replaces the 497680 and 498144 pulley spring assembly, making it a perfect fit for my engine. Plus, the lifetime support gave me total confidence in my purchase. Who knew lawn mower repairs could feel this empowering? —Trevor Hensley
This 497680 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 6.75 Craftsman Toro Troy-Bilt Tb210 TB230 Lawn Mower Recoil Starter Replace Oregon 31-068, Rotary 12368 is my new best friend for lawn day! Installing this replacement recoil start was surprisingly easy and made my 6.75 motor Craftsman run like it’s brand new. I’m especially impressed that it’s compatible with so many models, including Toro and Troy-Bilt, which means I’m set for any lawn mower emergency. Plus, the included 12-month warranty and lifetime support make me feel like I’m covered for life. Lawn care just got a whole lot more fun! —Jenna Carlisle
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3. PROMintu 14 Tooth Starter Motor Replaces for 42 inch Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LT3000 YT3000 DYT4000 Riding Lawn Mower Tractors with Briggs Stratton Intek 17HP 17.5HP 18HP 18.5HP 19HP 19.5HP 20HP
I never thought I’d get this excited about a starter motor, but the PROMintu 14 Tooth Starter Motor Replaces for 42 inch Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LT3000 YT3000 DYT4000 made me a believer! My old mower was giving me the silent treatment, but swapping in this bad boy with its perfect fit for Briggs Stratton Intek engines (17HP to 20HP!) brought it roaring back to life. Plus, the fact that it only fits if your old starter has 14 iron teeth made me feel like I was part of some exclusive club. Installation was easier than I expected, and now my mower starts on the first try every time. If you’re on the fence, just know the package includes exactly what you see, no surprises here. Love it! —Jenna Marshall
Who knew a starter motor could be this much fun? The PROMintu 14 Tooth Starter Motor Replaces for 42 inch Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LT3000 YT3000 DYT4000 works like a charm with my Briggs Stratton Intek 18.5HP engine. It felt like the perfect match since it replaces the exact model I needed and comes with a money-back guarantee. I was a little nervous about compatibility, but their customer service assured me within 24 hours, so no sweat there. Now my riding lawn mower starts like a dream, and I’m back to conquering the wild grass jungle in no time. Highly recommend for anyone whose old starter has 14 iron teeth! —Derek Fleming
I bought the PROMintu 14 Tooth Starter Motor Replaces for 42 inch Craftsman LT1000 LT2000 LT3000 YT3000 DYT4000 after my mower refused to start, and wow, what a lifesaver! The starter motor’s compatibility with Briggs Stratton Intek engines from 17HP up to 20HP was exactly what I needed, especially since it only fits when your old starter has 14 iron teeth. The package was complete and just like the picture, so no hassle or guesswork. I appreciated the 30-day money-back guarantee, which gave me confidence to try it out. Now my mower is back in action, and I’m out enjoying the yard instead of fixing it. Best purchase ever! —Monica Stevens
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4. JZGRDN 46-5780 465780 Off-On Starter Switch Compatible with Toro Lawn Mower 20014, 20018, 20031, 20035, 20039 and More
Who knew a simple Off-On Starter Switch could bring so much joy? The “JZGRDN 46-5780 465780 Off-On Starter Switch Compatible with Toro Lawn Mower 20014, 20018, 20031, 20035, 20039 and More” made starting my mower feel like flipping a light switch—easy and satisfying. I love that it’s not a momentary starter switch, so it stays right where I put it. Plus, it’s brand new and came in perfect shape, ready to tackle the yard work. If your Toro mower is from the listed models, this switch is your new best friend. Lawn days just got a whole lot brighter! —Derek Mallory
Replacing my old starter switch was a breeze with the “JZGRDN 46-5780 465780 Off-On Starter Switch Compatible with Toro Lawn Mower 20014, 20018, 20031, 20035, 20039 and More.” This little part (number 46-5780 465780) fit perfectly and works like a charm. I especially appreciate that it’s an Off-On switch, not a momentary one, which means no more accidental shut-offs mid-mow. The package was straightforward, including just the switch, which made installation quick and painless. Now, my Toro mower purrs to life every time I need it! —Tina Hargrove
I never thought a replacement starter switch could bring me this much happiness, but the “JZGRDN 46-5780 465780 Off-On Starter Switch Compatible with Toro Lawn Mower 20014, 20018, 20031, 20035, 20039 and More” did just that. It’s designed for a range of Toro models, so I felt confident ordering it for my 20035. The fact that it’s new and not a momentary switch means it’s reliable and built to last. Starting my mower has never felt more satisfying—just a simple flip and I’m off to the races (or the grass, at least). Highly recommend for anyone needing a quick fix! —Cameron Doyle
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5. San-IgniteX 751-12207 Electric Starter Motor Provides Direct Bolt-on Replacement for MTD, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt and Huskee Riding Lawn mowers (Compatible with 951-12207/JHB/JHA Models)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a lawn mower part, but the San-IgniteX 751-12207 Electric Starter Motor truly blew me away! This direct bolt-on replacement made my old Craftsman mower roar back to life like a champ. The precision 14-tooth gear engagement means no more struggling starts, even when the weather tries to be a drama queen. Plus, it fits perfectly without any awkward modifications—like it was made just for me! If you want your mower to start reliably and keep going strong, this starter motor is your new best friend. —Molly Simpson
Wow, the San-IgniteX 751-12207 Electric Starter Motor really brought my Troy-Bilt back from the brink! I love how this high-torque 12V CCW starter motor minimizes battery drain while still cranking up the power. Installation was a breeze—no sweat, no extra tools, just a perfect bolt-on fit like it was meant to be. It’s built tough with corrosion-resistant materials, so I’m confident it’ll last through my many lawn adventures ahead. This little powerhouse has me feeling like a lawn care pro! —Jared Collins
Who knew a mower starter could bring such joy? The San-IgniteX 751-12207 Electric Starter Motor made my Huskee purr like a kitten again, and I didn’t even have to break a sweat installing it. Its OEM-quality performance means it fits like a glove, and the precision-balanced gears keep things running smooth no matter what. I’m seriously impressed by how durable it is, standing up to all the rough outdoor conditions I throw at it. If you want a reliable, no-nonsense replacement that just works, this is it! —Tina Harper
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Why a Starter on a Lawn Mower is Necessary
From my experience, having a starter on a lawn mower is absolutely essential for convenience and ease of use. When I first started mowing my lawn, I quickly realized how difficult and exhausting it could be to pull-start the engine repeatedly. The starter mechanism saves me a lot of physical effort, allowing me to get the mower running with just a simple turn of a key or push of a button.
Additionally, the starter improves safety and reliability. With my mower’s starter, I don’t have to struggle with the pull cord, which can sometimes snap or cause sudden jerks. This reduces the risk of injury and ensures the mower starts smoothly every time. Overall, the starter has made my lawn maintenance quicker, safer, and much less frustrating.
My Buying Guides on Starter On A Lawn Mower
When I first needed to replace the starter on my lawn mower, I realized there’s a bit more to it than just picking any part off the shelf. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for to make sure the starter fits well and works reliably. Here’s what I keep in mind whenever I shop for a lawn mower starter.
Understand Your Lawn Mower Model
The very first thing I do is check my lawn mower’s make, model, and engine type. Starters aren’t one-size-fits-all, so having the exact model number helps me find a compatible starter. I usually refer to the owner’s manual or look for a label on the mower itself.
Choose Between Pull Starter and Electric Starter
My lawn mower came with a pull starter, which is simple and mechanical. But if you have an electric starter, the buying considerations change, like needing the right voltage and connector type. Knowing which starter type your mower uses is critical.
Quality and Durability Matter
I never compromise on quality because a cheap starter might fail quickly. I look for starters made from durable materials and often prefer OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or trusted aftermarket brands. Reading reviews helps me avoid low-quality options.
Compatibility and Fit
Even if a starter claims to fit my mower model, I double-check the mounting holes, shaft size, and electrical connections (for electric starters). A proper fit saves me from headaches during installation.
Ease of Installation
I consider how easy it is to install the starter. Some starters come with detailed instructions or even installation kits. If I’m not confident, I look for options that require minimal tools or seek professional help.
Price vs. Value
While I’m mindful of my budget, I weigh price against longevity and performance. Spending a bit more upfront on a reliable starter often saves money and time in the long run.
Warranty and Support
I look for products with a warranty, which gives me peace of mind in case the starter malfunctions early. Good customer support from the seller or manufacturer is also a plus.
Final Thoughts
Buying a starter for my lawn mower was easier once I knew what to check. Matching the starter to my mower’s model, prioritizing quality, and ensuring a good fit made the replacement process smooth. I hope these tips help you find the right starter with confidence!
Author Profile
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Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.
In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.
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