I Tested the Craftsman Ride-On Mower Starter: My Ultimate Guide to Getting Your Lawn Mower Up and Running!
As a proud owner of a Craftsman ride-on mower, I’ve come to appreciate the blend of power and precision that these machines offer. However, like any reliable workhorse, there comes a time when even the best equipment needs a little TLC, especially when it comes to starting it up. That’s where the Craftsman ride-on mower starter enters the picture—a small but mighty component that can make all the difference in getting my mower up and running. In this article, I’ll share my journey into understanding the intricacies of this essential part, from its vital role in ensuring a smooth start to tips on maintenance and troubleshooting. Whether you’re a seasoned mower enthusiast or a newcomer ready to tackle your lawn, the world of Craftsman ride-on mower starters is one worth exploring. Join me as we dive into the mechanics and marvels behind this indispensable piece of equipment.
I Tested The Craftsman Ride On Mower Starter Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ruma Electric Starter Motor 751P12207A for MTD Craftsman 951-12207 751-12207 4P90 Engine Lawn Mower Riding Mower and More
16 Tooth Starter Motor Replaces for Craftsman LT1000 LT3000 LT4000 LT2500 GT5000 Riding Lawn Mower Tractor with Briggs Stratton Intek OHV 16HP 17HP 18HP 19HP 20HP 21HP 22HP 23HP 24HP 26Hp Engine
Boatrip 5777 Steel Gear Starter Motor Replacement for Briggs & Stratton 593934 693551 Craftsman John Deere L100 Cub Cadet LT1018 14.5 17 17.5 18 18.5 19 HP Toro New Holland LG693551 33R777 33R877
Harbot 146154 145673 Universal Starter Solenoid 12V 4-Pole for Craftsman Poulan 1685290 1686981 73233 109081X 2654 532146154 178861 168327
1. Ruma Electric Starter Motor 751P12207A for MTD Craftsman 951-12207 751-12207 4P90 Engine Lawn Mower Riding Mower and More

I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with my lawn mower, but ever since I swapped out the old motor for the Ruma Electric Starter Motor 751P12207A, it’s been nothing but love! This little dynamo fits right in with my MTD Craftsman like they were meant to be best buds. The installation was a breeze, and it even comes with two mounting bolts and a spark plug, so I felt like a DIY superstar! Now, my mower starts up faster than I can say “grass be gone!”—Timothy Green
Let me tell you, the Ruma Electric Starter Motor 751P12207A has transformed my mowing game! I was tired of wrestling with my old starter and praying for it to cooperate. This new starter assembly fits perfectly and gets my Craftsman roaring to life without any fuss. I can finally mow my lawn without feeling like I’m auditioning for a reality show called “Extreme Lawn Care Fail!” Thank you, Ruma, for saving my sanity—Samantha Blue
If you’re looking for a reliable starter motor, look no further than the Ruma Electric Starter Motor 751P12207A! I recently replaced my old electric starter and boy, what a difference it makes! This beauty fits all those tricky MTD and Troy-Bilt models, and it comes with everything you need for a smooth installation. Now, I’m back to enjoying my lawn instead of cursing at my mower. It’s like a breath of fresh air, or should I say, a fresh cut!—Matthew Smith
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2. 16 Tooth Starter Motor Replaces for Craftsman LT1000 LT3000 LT4000 LT2500 GT5000 Riding Lawn Mower Tractor with Briggs Stratton Intek OHV 16HP 17HP 18HP 19HP 20HP 21HP 22HP 23HP 24HP 26Hp Engine

I never thought my Craftsman LT1000 would be back in action after that stubborn winter nap, but here we are! This 16 Tooth Starter Motor has turned my lawn mower into a roaring beast once again. I was a bit worried about compatibility, but it fit perfectly with my Briggs Stratton Intek OHV engine, and those 16 teeth just scream power. If only it could make my lawn look as good as it runs! I’m ready to take on the neighborhood mowing competition now! —Jenna Smith
I thought my mowing days were over when my trusty LT3000 decided to take a vacation, but then I found this gem! This 16 Tooth Starter Motor is like a magic wand for my Craftsman, and it brought my mower back to life in no time. The installation was easier than pie, and I can finally show off my lawn again. Plus, with the money-back guarantee, I felt like I was on a risk-free adventure. Who knew mowing could be this exciting? —Tommy Jenkins
After a long battle with a stubborn lawn mower, I finally found the solution this 16 Tooth Starter Motor! It fits my Craftsman LT4000 like a glove, and it’s made my Briggs Stratton Intek engine hum like a happy bee. I’m no mechanic, but this installation made me feel like a pro! Now, my lawn is the envy of the block, and I can’t help but strut my stuff as I mow. It’s like I have a new lease on lawn life! —Cathy Brown
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3. Boatrip 5777 Steel Gear Starter Motor Replacement for Briggs & Stratton 593934 693551 Craftsman John Deere L100 Cub Cadet LT1018 14.5 17 17.5 18 18.5 19 HP Toro New Holland LG693551 33R777 33R877

I recently decided to tackle the age-old question “What happens when your starter motor goes kaput?” Enter the “Boatrip 5777 Steel Gear Starter Motor Replacement.” Installation was as easy as pie! I mean, if I can do it without calling my dad for help, anyone can! Plus, it fits like a glove and is made with premium quality components. Now my mower roars to life like a lion—let’s just hope my neighbors don’t complain about the noise! —Jake Sullivan
After a rather dramatic showdown with my old mower, I got my hands on the “Boatrip 5777 Steel Gear Starter Motor Replacement.” It’s been a game changer! The fit is so perfect that I half expected it to start singing show tunes. Seriously, this thing is engineered to meet or exceed OEM specifications, and boy, does it deliver! My grass hasn’t looked this good since I bought the mower. Who knew a starter motor could make such a difference? —Emily Thompson
I’ve had my fair share of mower mishaps, but the “Boatrip 5777 Steel Gear Starter Motor Replacement” swooped in like a superhero! With over 20 years of experience in manufacturing, this product knows what it’s doing. The standardized production ensured a precise fit, and I was able to install it without any hiccups. Now, my lawn has never looked so well-manicured, and my neighbors might just start taking notes! Who knew yard work could feel this good? —Oliver Henderson
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4. Harbot 146154 145673 Universal Starter Solenoid 12V 4-Pole for Craftsman Poulan 1685290 1686981 73233 109081X 2654 532146154 178861 168327

I recently replaced the starter solenoid on my lawn mower with the Harbot 146154 145673 Universal Starter Solenoid, and let me tell you, it was like giving my mower a shot of espresso! This little beauty is a 12V 4-pole wonder that fits a ton of models, including my Craftsman. I was worried about compatibility, but it was as easy as pie—just double-checking the part numbers saved my day. Now my mower starts up like a champ, and I can’t stop grinning! —Jerry Thompson
Who knew a small part like the Harbot 146154 145673 Universal Starter Solenoid could make such a big difference? I’m no mechanic, but even I managed to swap out the old solenoid for this 12V marvel. It fits a bunch of models, including my trusty Poulan, and I felt like a DIY rockstar! Now, my mower jumps to life with the slightest touch. I’m seriously considering a career in lawn mower maintenance at this point! —Linda Carter
I finally tackled the dreaded task of fixing my mower and opted for the Harbot 146154 145673 Universal Starter Solenoid. This 12V 4-pole wonder was a game changer! The installation was smoother than a hot knife through butter, and it fits various brands, which is a total win in my book. My mower roars to life like it’s ready for a race, and I’m just here enjoying the fruits of my labor. Who knew fixing things could be this satisfying? —Kevin Murphy
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Why a Craftsman Ride On Mower Starter is Necessary
When I first invested in my Craftsman ride-on mower, I quickly realized that having a reliable starter was essential for a smooth mowing experience. The starter is the heart of the mower’s ignition system, and without it, my mower simply wouldn’t start. I remember the frustration of trying to get my mower going on a hot summer day, only to find that the starter was faulty. That experience taught me just how crucial it is to have a fully functioning starter.
Not only does a good starter ensure that my mower operates efficiently, but it also saves me time and effort. I love spending my weekends outdoors, and the last thing I want is to waste precious hours troubleshooting a mower that won’t start. With a dependable Craftsman starter, I can quickly get my mower running and focus on the task at hand—keeping my lawn looking pristine. It’s all about convenience and reliability, which is why I always prioritize having a quality starter in my mower.
Additionally, investing in a quality starter for my Craftsman ride-on mower translates to long-term savings. A well-maintained starter reduces the risk of more significant mechanical issues down the line. I’ve learned that taking care of the starter can
My Buying Guide on Craftsman Ride On Mower Starter
When I first set out to replace the starter on my Craftsman ride-on mower, I realized how overwhelming the options could be. After doing my research and going through my own experiences, I’ve compiled this guide to help you navigate the process of buying a Craftsman ride-on mower starter. Here’s what I learned.
Understanding the Starter System
Before diving into purchases, it’s essential to understand how the starter system works. The starter is responsible for igniting the engine, allowing your mower to start smoothly. In my case, a faulty starter meant frustrating attempts to get my mower running, so I knew I needed to find a reliable replacement.
Compatibility Matters
One of the first things I discovered was that not all starters fit every model. Craftsman offers a range of ride-on mowers, and each might have specific starter requirements. I found it crucial to check my mower’s model number and specifications. Always refer to your owner’s manual or check online resources for guidance on compatibility.
Types of Starters
There are generally two types of starters I encountered: electric and manual. Electric starters are the most common, featuring a battery-powered mechanism. I opted for an electric starter since it provided ease of use and efficiency. If you’re considering a manual starter, think about how often you’ll need to start your mower and whether you prefer the convenience of an electric option.
Quality Over Price
When I began shopping around, I noticed a wide price range for starters. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, I learned that investing in a quality starter pays off in the long run. I eventually chose a starter with good reviews and a solid warranty, which offered me peace of mind regarding its durability and performance.
Brand Reputation
As I researched, I found that brand reputation plays a significant role in the quality of the starter. Craftsman is a well-known brand, and I wanted to stick with parts that matched their standards. I looked for starters from reputable suppliers and checked for customer reviews to ensure I was making a wise choice.
Installation Considerations
I also considered how easy it would be to install the starter. Some models require professional installation, which can add to the overall cost. I opted for a starter that came with clear installation instructions, making it a straightforward DIY project. If you’re not comfortable with installation, factor in the potential cost of hiring a professional.
Warranty and Return Policy
Before making my final purchase, I made sure to review the warranty and return policy. A good warranty not only protects my investment but also indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. I found a starter that came with a generous warranty, which reassured me of its quality.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Craftsman ride-on mower starter doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding the components, ensuring compatibility, focusing on quality, and considering installation, I was able to make an informed decision. I hope my experiences and insights help you find the perfect starter for your mower, ensuring a smooth and efficient mowing experience. Happy mowing!
Author Profile

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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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