By Graham FisherUpdated November 2026
When a Craftsman M140 lawn mower won’t start, the cause is often a worn recoil starter, a failed starter component or a fuel and spark problem that happens to show up at the pull cord. This guide focuses on replacement parts for the M140 and closely related Craftsman models, so you can see which components are built for the job. We compared listings by fitment to the M140’s 160cc engine and its related 140cc siblings, the type of part each listing describes, the spec details manufacturers state, and the patterns owners tend to report about durability and installation. Use this list alongside a proper diagnosis, because a part only helps if it addresses the actual fault.
Best overall: Recoil Starter Assy. for Craftsman CMXGMAM1125500 M140 160cc Lawn Mower – View on Amazon
Best for model-specific fit: XSPANDER Recoil Pull Starter Assembly for Craftsman M110 – View on Amazon
Best for 3-in-1 Craftsman mowers: Recoil Starter Assembly – Fits Craftsman M105 140 cc – View on Amazon
Best for universal starter gear: 5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth) Replacement – View on Amazon
Best for electric start circuits: 146154 145673 Starter Solenoid 12V – View on Amazon
Best budget pick: Recoil Starter Assembly For Craftsman M105 140cc 3-In-1 Lawn Mower – View on Amazon
Best for multi-brand solenoid replacement: BlueStarsPoulan Husqvarna Starter Solenoid 146154 – View on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Recoil Starter Assy. for Craftsman CMXGMAM1125500 M140 160cc Lawn Mower | Direct M140 recoil replacement | Listed for the M140 160cc engine |
| XSPANDER Recoil Pull Starter Assembly for Craftsman M110 CMXGMAM1125499 140cc | Owners of 140cc Craftsman mowers | Model-specific recoil assembly |
| 5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth) Replacement | Starter gear replacement on multiple brands | Steel 14-tooth gear design |
| Recoil Starter Assembly – Fits Craftsman M105 140 cc 3-in-1 Lawn Mowers | 3-in-1 deck and bagging setups | Listed fit for 3-in-1 Craftsman mowers |
| 146154 145673 Starter Solenoid 12V for Craftsman LT1000 | Electric start circuit faults | 12V solenoid listing |
| BlueStarsPoulan Husqvarna Starter Solenoid 146154 4-Pole | Multi-brand solenoid replacement | 4-pole solenoid with broad cross-reference |
| Recoil Starter Assembly For Craftsman M105 140cc 3-In-1 Lawn Mower | Budget recoil replacement | Straightforward 140cc recoil listing |
Recoil Starter Assy. for Craftsman CMXGMAM1125500 M140 160cc Lawn Mower
Recoil Starter Assy. for Craftsman CMXGMAM1125500 M140 160cc Lawn Mower
Best for: Direct recoil replacement on a Craftsman M140 with the 160cc engine
This is the most direct match if your M140 pulls hard, skips, or won’t engage. Owners replacing a broken recoil typically want a part listed for their exact model number, and this listing names the M140 and its CMXGMAM1125500 part number.
Key specs:
- Recoil starter assembly (pull-start type)
- Listed for Craftsman M140, 160cc engine
- Replacement for model CMXGMAM1125500
Pros:
- Named specifically for the M140 160cc engine
- Addresses the most common no-start symptom on pull-start mowers
- Usually a faster fix than rebuilding an old starter
Cons:
- Requires removing the shroud and recoil housing
- Won’t fix fuel or spark problems
Bottom line: The best first choice for an M140 owner whose pull cord is the problem.
XSPANDER Recoil Pull Starter Assembly for Craftsman M110 CMXGMAM1125499 140cc
XSPANDER Recoil Pull Starter Assembly for Craftsman M110 Lawn Mower CMXGMAM1125499 140cc Engine
Best for: Model-specific recoil replacement on 140cc Craftsman push mowers
This listing targets the M110 and a 140cc engine, which overlaps with the M140 family. It’s a good option if you have a close sibling model and want a clearly labeled recoil assembly.
Key specs:
- Recoil pull starter assembly
- Listed for Craftsman M110, 140cc engine
- Part number CMXGMAM1125499
Pros:
- Clear model labeling
- Covers the common recoil failure point
- Useful for owners of closely related Craftsman engines
Cons:
- Confirm engine displacement and shaft fit before ordering for an M140
- Installation still requires disassembly of the starter housing
Bottom line: A solid alternative if your mower matches the M110 listing more closely than the M140 one.
5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth) Replacement for Briggs & Stratton and Craftsman Mowers
5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth) Replacement for Briggs & Stratton 593934 693551 Craftsman Lawn Mower Tractor John Deere L100 D105 Cub Cadet LT1018 14.5 17 18 18.5 19HP LG693551 33R777
Best for: Replacing a worn or stripped starter gear on a pull-start engine
When the pull cord turns but the engine doesn’t crank, the starter gear or drive pawl is a common culprit. This listing is a replacement steel gear with 14 teeth, cross-referenced to several engine and mower brands.
Key specs:
- Steel construction
- 14-tooth starter gear
- Cross-referenced to Briggs & Stratton 593934 and 693551
Pros:
- Addresses a common no-crank failure
- Steel gear is generally more durable than worn stock components
- Broad cross-reference list
Cons:
- Cross-references are broad, so confirm the tooth count and shaft fit
- Not a complete recoil assembly
Bottom line: Worth considering if the cord pulls freely but the engine won’t turn over.
Recoil Starter Assembly – Fits Craftsman M105 140 cc 3-in-1 Lawn Mowers
Recoil Starter Assembly – Fits Craftsman M105 140 cc 3‑in‑1 Lawn Mowers
Best for: 3-in-1 Craftsman mowers with a 140cc engine
Owners of 3-in-1 Craftsman mowers often have a mower that shares engine architecture with the M140. This recoil assembly is labeled for that 140cc 3-in-1 family.
Key specs:
- Recoil starter assembly
- Listed for Craftsman M105, 140cc, 3-in-1 configuration
Pros:
- Clear 140cc 3-in-1 labeling
- Straightforward recoil replacement
- Useful for owners whose model is not the M140 exactly
Cons:
- Verify that your M140 uses the same recoil bolt pattern
- Does not address fuel or spark causes
Bottom line: A strong option for 3-in-1 owners who want a recoil that matches a sibling engine.
146154 145673 Starter Solenoid 12V for Craftsman LT1000
146154 145673 Starter Solenoid 12V for Craftsman LT1000 Poulan 532145673 Husqvarna 532146154 AYP 109081X Lawn Mower
Best for: Electric start mowers where the starter clicks but doesn’t crank
If your mower has electric start and you hear a click without engine cranking, the solenoid is a likely suspect. This 12V solenoid is listed for Craftsman LT1000 and several cross-referenced models.
Key specs:
- 12V starter solenoid
- Cross-referenced to part numbers 145673 and 146154
Pros:
- Targets a common electric-start failure
- Simple bolt-on replacement in most cases
- Clear voltage rating
Cons:
- M140 is a pull-start model in most configurations, so confirm your mower has electric start
- Test the battery and cables first
Bottom line: Only the right choice if your Craftsman has an electric starter circuit.
BlueStarsPoulan Husqvarna Lawn Mower Starter Solenoid 146154 4-Pole
BlueStarsPoulan Husqvarna Lawn Mower 2654 532146154 178861 168327 168327 1685290 1686981 73233 109081X 4-Pole 146154 145673 Starter Solenoid – For Craftsman LT1000
Best for: Multi-brand solenoid replacement on electric-start mowers
This 4-pole solenoid carries a long cross-reference list covering Poulan, Husqvarna and Craftsman part numbers. It’s useful when the original part number is hard to read or discontinued.
Key specs:
- 4-pole starter solenoid
- Cross-referenced to part 146154 and multiple other numbers
Pros:
- Broad cross-reference coverage
- Useful for hard-to-identify parts
- Addresses electric-start circuit failures
Cons:
- Long cross-reference lists require careful matching
- Only relevant to electric-start configurations
Bottom line: A practical pick when you need to match an old or unlabeled solenoid.
Recoil Starter Assembly For Craftsman M105 140cc 3-In-1 Lawn Mower
Recoil Starter Assembly For Craftsman M105 140cc 3-In-1 Lawn Mower
Best for: Budget-minded owners needing a basic 140cc recoil replacement
For owners who want a straightforward recoil swap without extra features, this listing covers the same 140cc 3-in-1 family as the M105.
Key specs:
- Recoil starter assembly
- Listed for Craftsman M105, 140cc, 3-in-1
Pros:
- Simple, focused replacement part
- Good match for 140cc Craftsman engines
- Easy to compare against OEM part numbers
Cons:
- Confirm fitment against your exact model before installing
- Limited detail in the listing name
Bottom line: A good value choice for owners with a 140cc 3-in-1 Craftsman.
Buying Guide
Confirm Your Exact Engine Size and Model Number
Craftsman uses several engine displacements across its mower lines. Check the model plate on the deck or engine shroud, and confirm whether your mower is listed as 140cc or 160cc. Mismatched displacement is the most common reason a recoil or starter part fails to fit or engage.
Good picks for this: Recoil Starter Assy. for Craftsman CMXGMAM1125500 M140 160cc Lawn Mower; XSPANDER Recoil Pull Starter Assembly for Craftsman M110
Match the Part to the Failure Mode
Pull cord goes slack or spins freely: suspect the recoil assembly. Cord pulls normally but the engine doesn’t turn: suspect the starter gear or drive pawl. Electric start clicks without cranking: suspect the solenoid or battery cables. Replacing the wrong component wastes time, so diagnose before you buy.
Good picks for this: 5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth) Replacement; 146154 145673 Starter Solenoid 12V for Craftsman LT1000
Check Cross-Reference Lists Carefully
Many replacement parts list dozens of compatible part numbers. A long list is useful, but it isn’t a guarantee. Compare the number stamped on your old part with the listing, and measure the shaft or gear teeth if the fit is critical.
Good picks for this: BlueStarsPoulan Husqvarna Lawn Mower Starter Solenoid 146154 4-Pole; 5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth) Replacement
Consider Your Mower’s Configuration
Some Craftsman models are 3-in-1 mowers that mulch, bag and discharge. The deck and starter layout can differ slightly from a standard push mower, so a 3-in-1-labeled recoil is a safer match for that configuration.
Good picks for this: Recoil Starter Assembly – Fits Craftsman M105 140 cc 3-in-1 Lawn Mowers; Recoil Starter Assembly For Craftsman M105 140cc 3-In-1 Lawn Mower
Evaluate Build Quality and Materials
Steel gears and metal recoil housings generally outlast plastic equivalents under repeated pulls. Owners frequently report that stripped plastic pawls and cracked housings are the reason a second starter failure occurs within a season, so favor metal components where the listing states them.
Good picks for this: 5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth) Replacement; Recoil Starter Assy. for Craftsman CMXGMAM1125500 M140 160cc Lawn Mower
Plan the Installation
Disconnect the spark plug wire before working near the starter. Recoil replacement usually means removing the blade, shroud and recoil housing. Take photos before disassembly, keep track of bolt lengths, and torque fasteners to the manufacturer’s specification in your owner’s manual.
Good picks for this: Recoil Starter Assy. for Craftsman CMXGMAM1125500 M140 160cc Lawn Mower; Recoil Starter Assembly For Craftsman M105 140cc 3-In-1 Lawn Mower
Think About Long-Term Care
A new starter won’t last if the engine is starved of clean fuel or the air filter is clogged, because the engine will work harder on every pull. Replace old fuel, keep the air filter clean and store the mower with stabilized fuel to reduce future starting problems. Related troubleshooting appears in our guides, such as Craftsman M260 Lawn Mower Won't Start: 8 Causes and Fixes and Craftsman Lawn Mower Won't Start After Sitting: 8 Fixes That Work.
Good picks for this: Recoil Starter Assembly – Fits Craftsman M105 140 cc 3-in-1 Lawn Mowers; BlueStarsPoulan Husqvarna Lawn Mower Starter Solenoid 146154 4-Pole
FAQ
Why won’t my Craftsman M140 start even though the cord pulls?
If the cord pulls with normal resistance but the engine doesn’t fire, the problem is usually fuel, spark or compression rather than the starter. If the cord spins freely with no resistance, the recoil pawl or spring has likely failed.
How do I know if the recoil starter is the problem?
Remove the shroud and look at the pulley and pawl while pulling by hand. A broken spring, missing pawl or cracked housing points to the recoil assembly. Also check whether the cord has frayed near the handle.
Can I use a 140cc recoil on a 160cc M140?
Only if the listing explicitly confirms compatibility with your engine and bolt pattern. Engine displacement and shaft dimensions affect fit, so verify against the model number on your mower before ordering.
What is the difference between a recoil starter and a starter gear?
The recoil assembly includes the pull cord, pulley and spring. The starter gear or drive pawl engages the flywheel to turn the engine. Either can fail, and both can cause a no-start condition.
Does a bad starter solenoid affect pull-start mowers?
No. Solenoids are part of electric-start circuits. A pull-start M140 generally doesn’t use one, so a solenoid replacement won’t fix a pull-cord problem.
When should I take the mower to a professional?
If the engine has compression problems, internal damage or you’re uncomfortable working with the blade and flywheel, a qualified small-engine technician should inspect it. Consult a professional before attempting repairs beyond basic part replacement.
Conclusion
For most M140 owners with a pull-start problem, the direct recoil assembly listed for the M140 160cc engine is the most relevant first purchase. If the cord turns but the engine won’t crank, consider a steel starter gear. Electric-start owners should look at the solenoid and battery cables instead. The 3-in-1 and budget recoil options suit owners with close sibling models, provided fitment is confirmed. Always diagnose the specific failure first, then match the part to it.
Sources
- Guidance on small engine maintenance, fuel storage and safe equipment operation (energy.gov)
- Safety information for lawn mowers, including starting and blade-contact precautions (cpsc.gov)
Related reading
- Craftsman V20 Lawn Mower Won't Start: 6 Best Replacement Parts (2026)
- Craftsman M320 Lawn Mower Won't Start: Step-by-Step Fixes
- Craftsman M220 Lawn Mower Won't Start: 7 Best Recoil Starter Replacements (2026)
About Graham Fisher
Graham Fisher is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our lawn mowers guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
