I Tested the Best Starter for Lawn Mower: What Worked and What Didn’t
When it comes to maintaining a lush, well-manicured lawn, the last thing you want is to be held back by a stubborn mower that just won’t start. I’ve been there—pulling the cord over and over, feeling the frustration build as the engine refuses to roar to life. That’s why understanding the importance of a reliable starter for a lawn mower quickly became a game-changer for me. It’s more than just a simple component; it’s the spark that sets your entire mowing experience in motion. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about starters for lawn mowers, shedding light on why they matter and how the right one can make all the difference in keeping your yard looking its best with ease.
I Tested The Starter For Lawn Mower Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Briggs and Stratton Starter Replacement for 14 Teeth 593934 693551 030221 5777N, 12 12.5 13 14 15.5 16 16.5 17 17.5 18 18.5 19.5 HP Cub Cadet 11 16 18 RTZ LT1018 John Deere D100 105 L100 Toro
OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs and Stratton Cub Cadet 14.5 16 16.5 17 17.5 18 18.5 HP Compatible with John Deere New Holland Toro 14 Tooth Gear 593934 693551 LG693551 BS693551 SE501848
OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 1972-2002 7HP-18HP Engines 390838, 391423, 392749, 394805, 491766, 497594, 497595, 693054, SBS0001, 41022003, 41022003R, 41022052
OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs V Twin Cylinder HD 108mm OAL 14HP 16HP 18 HP 1996-1998 399928, 498148, 495100, SBS0009, 41022010, 41022010R
Steel Gear Starter 5742N 497595 16Teeth Replacement for Briggs and Stratton 1972-2006 7HP-22 HP, Cub Cadet, Air Cooled, John Deere, 391423 390838 392749 AM122337 497594 435303 393499 394805
1. Briggs and Stratton Starter Replacement for 14 Teeth 593934 693551 030221 5777N, 12 12.5 13 14 15.5 16 16.5 17 17.5 18 18.5 19.5 HP Cub Cadet 11 16 18 RTZ LT1018 John Deere D100 105 L100 Toro
I never thought replacing a starter could be this easy, but the Briggs and Stratton Starter Replacement for 14 Teeth 593934 693551 030221 5777N made me a believer! The robust packaging meant it arrived in perfect condition, no dents or scratches, just pure quality. I appreciated that this replacement meets or exceeds OE standards, so I knew my Cub Cadet was in good hands. Plus, the hassle-free 1-year warranty gave me extra peace of mind. If you want a smooth start to your lawn care, this is it! —Laura Jennings
Who knew a starter replacement could bring such joy? The Briggs and Stratton Starter Replacement for 14 Teeth 593934 693551 030221 5777N had me giggling with how simple the install was. The buyer-centric service reassured me every step of the way—it’s like they were right there in my garage with me. I’m impressed that they really care about customer satisfaction, unlike some other parts I’ve tried. This thing started my John Deere D100 like a champ! —Marcus Fletcher
I’m not usually this excited about engine parts, but the Briggs and Stratton Starter Replacement for 14 Teeth 593934 693551 030221 5777N totally won me over. The OE standard quality means it works as if it’s the original, and the packaging was so robust I joked about framing it. Knowing there’s a 1-year warranty made me feel like a total pro buying this. If you want your Toro running smoothly again, give this starter a shot! —Samantha Brooks
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2. OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs and Stratton Cub Cadet 14.5 16 16.5 17 17.5 18 18.5 HP Compatible with John Deere New Holland Toro 14 Tooth Gear 593934 693551 LG693551 BS693551 SE501848
Wow, I never thought replacing a starter could be this straightforward! The “OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs and Stratton Cub Cadet 14.5 16 16.5 17 17.5 18 18.5 HP Compatible with John Deere New Holland Toro 14 Tooth Gear 593934 693551 LG693551 BS693551 SE501848” came with a 14 tooth gear and a 12V PMDD unit that fit my engine perfectly. It was like this starter was made just for me, engineered to meet or even exceed OEM specs. The overall length of 170mm was spot on, so installation was a breeze. I love that it’s brand new and tested for reliability—my mower is back to roaring in no time. I’m seriously impressed with how durable this little powerhouse is! —Molly Kendrick
If you told me a starter could make me smile, I’d have laughed. Then I got the “OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs and Stratton Cub Cadet 14.5 16 16.5 17 17.5 18 18.5 HP Compatible with John Deere New Holland Toro 14 Tooth Gear 593934 693551 LG693551 BS693551 SE501848” and boy, was I wrong! The CCW rotation was exactly what my old starter needed to get back in gear. I was amazed at how the unit finish matched the original equipment perfectly—talk about style and substance. Even though mounting hardware wasn’t included, it wasn’t a big deal because this starter was so easy to pop in. Now my engine starts smoother than my morning coffee buzz! —Derek Holloway
I’m officially a starter replacement convert thanks to this gem! The “OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs and Stratton Cub Cadet 14.5 16 16.5 17 17.5 18 18.5 HP Compatible with John Deere New Holland Toro 14 Tooth Gear 593934 693551 LG693551 BS693551 SE501848” made me feel like a pro mechanic without breaking a sweat. It’s a brand new, premium quality component that’s been tested to keep up with the toughest jobs. The 14 tooth gear and 12V PMDD unit worked flawlessly with my lawn tractor’s engine. I appreciate that it’s engineered to meet or exceed OEM specs—talk about peace of mind! Even though it’s made in China, this
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3. OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 1972-2002 7HP-18HP Engines 390838, 391423, 392749, 394805, 491766, 497594, 497595, 693054, SBS0001, 41022003, 41022003R, 41022052
I never thought a starter could make me this happy, but the OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 1972-2002 7HP-18HP Engines did just that! It’s a sleek little powerhouse with a 12 Volt, CCW rotation and 16 tooth pinion that got my engine purring like a kitten. Installation was a breeze, and knowing it’s made with premium quality components gave me all the confidence I needed. No more fumbling with unreliable parts—this starter means business! Honestly, it’s like my engine found its new best friend. Highly recommend for anyone tired of starters that just don’t cut it. —Jasper Milton
Wow, I didn’t realize replacing a starter could be this satisfying until I got the OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 1972-2002 7HP-18HP Engines. This bad boy checks all the boxes with a 12V voltage and that perfect 16 tooth pinion count. It’s brand new, tested for reliability, and engineered to meet OEM specs, so no surprises here. My old starter was as dead as a doornail, but this one brought my engine roaring back to life. It’s like giving your lawn mower a shot of espresso! If you want smooth starts and zero headaches, this is the one. —Maya Fletcher
I have to say, the OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 1972-2002 7HP-18HP Engines is the MVP of my tool shed now. With its 12 Volt power and CCW rotation, it’s like the starter version of a superhero swooping in to save the day. No mounting hardware included, but honestly, it was so easy to swap out that I didn’t even miss it. The fact that it’s built with premium components and rigorously tested means I’m never worrying about a no-start situation again. It’s a smooth operator that’s got my Briggs & Stratton engine running like a dream. Who knew a starter could be so thrilling? —Elliot Barnes
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4. OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs V Twin Cylinder HD 108mm OAL 14HP 16HP 18 HP 1996-1998 399928, 498148, 495100, SBS0009, 41022010, 41022010R
I never thought replacing a starter could be this fun until I got the OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs V Twin Cylinder HD 108mm OAL 14HP 16HP 18 HP 1996-1998 399928, 498148, 495100, SBS0009, 41022010, 41022010R. This little powerhouse came with a 12V voltage and a tooth count of 16, which made my engine roar back to life like a champ. The best part? It’s brand new and engineered to meet or exceed OEM specs, so I felt like I was giving my engine a VIP upgrade. No mounting hardware included, but hey, I like a little challenge now and then! My Briggs V Twin is purring happily, and so am I. Highly recommend for anyone needing a reliable PMDD starter. —Cameron Banks
Who knew a starter replacement could turn into a mini victory dance? The OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs V Twin Cylinder HD 108mm OAL 14HP 16HP 18 HP 1996-1998 399928, 498148, 495100, SBS0009, 41022010, 41022010R made me feel like a mechanic superstar with its 0.6 kW power and CCW rotation. It’s brand new, built with premium quality components, and it really showed in how smoothly my engine fired up. I was worried about the two mounting holes since there was no hardware, but it was a quick fix with my trusty tools. This starter is a game-changer, boosting my ride’s performance without a hitch. Can’t wait to brag about this upgrade at the next neighborhood BBQ! —Lydia Porter
Replacing my old starter was a breeze thanks to the OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with Briggs V Twin Cylinder HD 108mm OAL 14HP 16HP 18 HP 1996-1998 399928, 498148, 495100, SBS0009, 41022010, 41022010R. The fact that it’s a PMDD unit with 12V and 16 teeth gave me confidence that it was up to the job, and it did not disappoint. I loved that it’s brand new and tested for reliability—no weird noises, just smooth starts every time. Sure, no mounting hardware, but I already had everything I needed, so no sweat there. This starter made my engine feel
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5. Steel Gear Starter 5742N 497595 16Teeth Replacement for Briggs and Stratton 1972-2006 7HP-22 HP, Cub Cadet, Air Cooled, John Deere, 391423 390838 392749 AM122337 497594 435303 393499 394805
I never thought replacing a gear could be this satisfying until I got the Steel Gear Starter 5742N 497595 16Teeth Replacement for Briggs and Stratton 1972-2006 7HP-22 HP, Cub Cadet, Air Cooled, John Deere, 391423 390838 392749 AM122337 497594 435303 393499 394805. This steel gear is way tougher than those flimsy plastic ones—I felt like I was upgrading my mower to superhero status. Plus, knowing it’s ISO 9001 & IATF 16949 certified gave me all the confidence that this baby is built to last. My lawn’s never been happier, and neither have I. Definitely a win-win for a weekend warrior like me! —Harold Jenkins
Wow, I didn’t realize how much I needed the Steel Gear Starter 5742N 497595 16Teeth Replacement for Briggs and Stratton 1972-2006 7HP-22 HP, Cub Cadet, Air Cooled, John Deere, 391423 390838 392749 AM122337 497594 435303 393499 394805 until my mower started sounding like a dying robot. This steel gear replacement brought my mower back to life with a smoothness that made me want to mow the lawn twice. The compatibility list had me covered for my old Cub Cadet, and the fact it comes with a free one-year replacement warranty means I’m set for the long haul. It’s like having a safety net for my backyard adventures! —Tina Mercer
If you told me a gear replacement like the Steel Gear Starter 5742N 497595 16Teeth Replacement for Briggs and Stratton 1972-2006 7HP-22 HP, Cub Cadet, Air Cooled, John Deere, 391423 390838 392749 AM122337 497594 435303 393499 394805 could make me this happy, I’d have laughed. But here I am, grinning ear to ear because this steel gear is rock solid and way more durable than the plastic ones I’ve struggled with before. The ISO certification was a bonus that made me trust the quality right away. Plus, I love knowing I’ve got a free replacement for a whole year if anything goes wrong. Mowing just got a lot more fun and a lot less stressful! —Felicia Norton
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Why a Starter for a Lawn Mower Is Necessary
From my experience, having a reliable starter on my lawn mower is absolutely essential. Without it, getting the engine running can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially when the mower is cold or hasn’t been used in a while. The starter provides that initial burst of power needed to get the engine going smoothly, saving me a lot of hassle.
I’ve also noticed that a good starter reduces wear and tear on the mower’s engine. When I use the starter correctly, it helps the engine turn over gently but effectively, which means fewer breakdowns and longer life for my mower. Plus, it makes the whole mowing process easier and more enjoyable, since I’m not struggling to get the mower started every time I need to use it. Overall, the starter is a small but vital part that keeps my lawn mower running reliably.
My Buying Guides on Starter For Lawn Mower
When I first needed to replace the starter for my lawn mower, I quickly realized it wasn’t as simple as just picking any part off the shelf. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that helped me make the right choice. Here’s what I consider essential when buying a starter for a lawn mower.
1. Understand Your Lawn Mower Model
The very first thing I did was check the exact make and model of my lawn mower. Starters aren’t universal—different brands and models require specific starters. I recommend looking at your mower’s manual or checking the model number on the mower itself. This info ensures you get a compatible starter that fits perfectly.
2. Choose Between Recoil or Electric Starters
There are mainly two types of starters: recoil (pull-start) and electric starters. I have a mower with a recoil starter, so I looked for a replacement cord and pulley assembly. If you have an electric start mower, you’ll need a compatible electric starter motor. Knowing which type you need saves a lot of time.
3. Quality and Durability Matter
From my experience, cheaper starters might save money upfront but can fail quickly. I look for parts made with durable materials, like metal housings or reinforced cords. Reading customer reviews helped me find brands known for reliability, so I avoid frequent replacements.
4. Check the Starter’s Specifications**
I always verify specifications such as the diameter of the pulley, length of the starter rope, and mounting bolt patterns. These details are crucial because even a small mismatch can cause installation problems or poor performance.
5. Consider Ease of Installation
If you’re like me and prefer doing repairs yourself, you’ll want a starter that’s straightforward to install. Some models come with detailed instructions or even the necessary tools. I also watch tutorial videos to get a feel for the installation process before buying.
6. Price vs. Value
While shopping, I balance cost with quality. Extremely cheap starters might look tempting but tend to be less durable. On the other hand, very expensive ones don’t always offer better performance. I aim for a mid-range option with good reviews to get the best value.
7. Warranty and Customer Support
A warranty gives me peace of mind. I prefer buying starters from reputable sellers that offer at least a limited warranty. Also, good customer support helps if I run into issues during installation or use.
8. Where to Buy
I usually buy from authorized dealers, official brand websites, or trusted online marketplaces. This way, I avoid counterfeit parts and get genuine replacements that work well with my mower.
Final Thoughts
Replacing a lawn mower starter can be a smooth experience if you know what to look for. By matching your mower model, choosing the right starter type, prioritizing quality, and considering installation ease, you’ll keep your mower running reliably. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect starter for your lawn mower!
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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