By Brooke KingsleyUpdated November 2026
When a toro riding lawn mower won’t start, the cause is often a single worn or failed component, and the fastest way back to cutting is usually a targeted replacement part. This guide compares seven parts that owners commonly search for when diagnosing a no-start condition: starter solenoids, an ignition switch kit, recoil starters and a 60-volt start button. Selection criteria were compatibility with Toro and common Toro-related engine families, clear part numbers in the listing, broad owner feedback patterns, and whether the part addresses a failure mode that is genuinely common on these machines. Before buying anything, read the diagnostic steps in Why Won't My Toro Lawn Mower Start? 8 Causes and Fixes so you know which part you actually need.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overall117-1197 Starter Solenoid for Toro Timecutter ss5000 z4200 ss4225 ss42View on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for full ignition replacementIgnition Switch Starter Solenoid Kit for Toro Zero Turn Lawn MowerView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for Toro Recycler ownersRecoil Starter for Kohler XT-Series Recycler MowersView on Amazon - 4
Best budget pickPowtol XT675 149CC Recoil Starter for Toro RecyclerView on Amazon - 5
Best for larger Kohler twinsKohler Starter 7000 Series MowersView on Amazon - 6
Best for 60-volt electric modelsToro Part # 133-8144 60 Volt Start Push ButtonView on Amazon - 7
Best alternative solenoid117-1197 784-1221-210 Starter Solenoid Compatible for Exmark Lawn Boy Toro Z MowerView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| 117-1197 Starter Solenoid for Toro Timecutter ss5000 z4200 ss4225 ss4235 Exmark Zero Turn Lawn Mower | Clicking or no-crank starts on Toro zero turns | Multiple listed cross-reference numbers |
| Ignition Switch Starter Solenoid Kit for Toro Zero Turn Lawn Mower | Owners replacing switch and solenoid together | Kit format covers two common failure points |
| Recoil Starter for Kohler XT-Series Recycler Mowers | Toro Recycler models with Kohler XT engines | OEM-style cross-reference numbers listed |
| Powtol XT675 149CC Recoil Starter for Toro Recycler | Budget-minded Recycler repairs | Lower-cost recoil option for XT engines |
| Kohler Starter 7000 Series Mowers | Larger Kohler twin-cylinder engines | 12V starter motor for 20–27 HP range |
| Toro Part # 133-8144 60 Volt Start Push Button | Toro 60-volt electric riding models | OEM Toro part number |
| 117-1197 784-1221-210 Starter Solenoid Compatible for Exmark Lawn Boy Toro Z Mower | Alternate solenoid for zero-turn repairs | 4-terminal 12V DC design |
117-1197 Starter Solenoid for Toro Timecutter ss5000 z4200 ss4225 ss4235 Exmark Zero Turn Lawn Mower
117-1197 Starter Solenoid for Toro Timecutter ss5000 z4200 ss4225 ss4235 Exmark Zero Turn Lawn Mower, Replace Part #784-1221-210 104-3189 E513075 1-513075 212655 28-4210 47-1910
Best for: Clicking or no-crank starts on Toro zero-turn mowers
This is the solenoid most owners of Toro TimeCutter zero turns look for first. A solenoid that clicks but does not turn the engine over is a classic symptom of a worn contact, and it is one of the cheapest repairs to attempt.
Key specs
- Designed as a replacement for Toro part 117-1197
- Lists multiple cross-reference numbers, including 104-3189 and 1-513075
- Intended for Toro TimeCutter and Exmark zero-turn applications
Pros
- Clear list of cross-reference part numbers to verify fitment
- Addresses one of the most common no-start failures on these models
- Straightforward bolt-on replacement for most owners
Cons
- Compatibility depends on matching your exact model and part number
- Does not address ignition switch or battery problems
Bottom line: The best starting point for TimeCutter owners whose mower clicks but won’t crank. Confirm the part number printed on your existing solenoid before ordering.
Ignition Switch Starter Solenoid Kit for Toro Zero Turn Lawn Mower
Ignition Switch Starter Solenoid Kit for Toro Zero Turn Lawn Mower, Replace 117-2221 137-4100 117-1197, Fit Exmark Lazer Z Titan TimeCutter Quest Z Master, Toro Lawn Mower Parts
Best for: Owners replacing the ignition switch and solenoid together
If the key turns but nothing happens, or the starter engages intermittently, the ignition switch is a likely culprit. A kit that bundles the switch with a solenoid saves a second order when both parts are worn.
Key specs
- Kit format including ignition switch and starter solenoid
- Lists replacement numbers 117-2221, 137-4100 and 117-1197
- Listed for Toro zero-turn and related Exmark models
Pros
- Covers two common failure points in one purchase
- Useful when diagnosis points to both switch and solenoid
- Multiple cross-reference numbers help confirm fit
Cons
- Unnecessary if only the solenoid has failed
- Kit contents must be checked against your existing wiring connectors
Bottom line: A sensible choice for owners who have already ruled out the battery and want to replace the switch and solenoid at once.
Recoil Starter for Kohler XT-Series Recycler Mowers
Fits Select Toro Recycler Mowers With Kohler XT-Series 149cc/173cc Engines; Replaces 1416520, 1416520S And 1416520-S 14 165 20-S Recoil Starter for Kohler XT650 XT675 XT775 XT800
Best for: Toro Recycler models with Kohler XT engines
Recycler owners often find that the recoil rope pulls freely but does not engage the crankshaft. A worn or broken starter assembly is the usual cause, and replacing it restores normal pull-start operation.
Key specs
- Fits Kohler XT-Series engines in the 149cc and 173cc range
- Replaces Toro-listed numbers 1416520 and 1416520S
- Intended for Toro Recycler mowers
Pros
- Specific engine-size compatibility is listed
- Includes OEM-style cross-reference numbers
- Restores pull-start function without engine work
Cons
- Only relevant if your mower uses a recoil starter, not electric start
- Requires matching the engine displacement exactly
Bottom line: The right pick for Recycler owners with a Kohler XT engine who have confirmed a recoil fault.
Powtol XT675 149CC Recoil Starter for Toro Recycler
Powtol XT675 149CC Recoil Starter for Toro Recycler 22 Pull Start Assembly Kohler 6.5 6.75 149cc 173cc XT650 XT 675 Engine Lawn Mower Replace 14 165 20-S
Best for: Budget-minded Recycler repairs
This is an alternative recoil assembly for Recycler mowers with Kohler XT engines. It is a sensible option when you want a recoil replacement without choosing the premium route.
Key specs
- Designed for 149cc XT-series Kohler engines
- Lists replacement for part number 14 165 20-S
- Pull-start assembly for Toro Recycler 22 mowers
Pros
- Lower-cost route for recoil replacement
- Explicit engine and part-number compatibility
- Simple installation on the existing mounting points
Cons
- Owners often report that fit and build quality vary between aftermarket recoil units
- Verify displacement and mounting pattern before installing
Bottom line: Best for Recycler owners who want an affordable recoil fix and are willing to double-check fitment carefully.
Kohler Starter 7000 Series Mowers
Kohler Starter 7000 Series Mowers for KT715 KT725 KT730 KT735 KT740 KT745 Courage Twin SV710 SV715 SV720 SV730 SV735 SV740 SV810 SV820 SV830 SV840 3209801 3209803 3209804 3209808 12V 20-27 HP
Best for: Larger Kohler twin-cylinder engines
This is an electric starter motor rather than a recoil or solenoid. It suits owners of larger Kohler twins where the engine cranks slowly or not at all, which can point to a worn starter motor.
Key specs
- 12V electric starter
- Listed for Kohler 7000 Series engines in the 20–27 HP range
- Multiple Kohler and Courage twin cross-reference numbers listed
Pros
- Wide list of cross-reference numbers
- Targets slow or dead cranking rather than clicking
- Appropriate for higher-horsepower twin engines
Cons
- Not relevant to single-cylinder or 60-volt electric models
- Starter motor replacement is more involved than a solenoid swap
Bottom line: A good match for owners with a larger Kohler twin whose engine cranks sluggishly. Confirm the model number before ordering.
Toro Part # 133-8144 60 Volt Start Push Button
Toro Part # 133-8144 60 Volt Start Push Button
Best for: Toro 60-volt electric riding models
Electric Toro models use a push button rather than a key-switch solenoid arrangement in some configurations. A failed start button can leave the mower dead even when the battery is healthy.
Key specs
- OEM Toro part number 133-8144
- Designed for 60-volt systems
- Replacement start push button
Pros
- Genuine Toro part number
- Targets a specific electric start failure point
- Simple to test with a multimeter before replacement
Cons
- Only applies to 60-volt electric models
- Not useful for gas-engine mowers
Bottom line: Essential for 60-volt Toro owners whose start button is the likely fault. Gas-engine owners can skip this one.
117-1197 784-1221-210 Starter Solenoid Compatible for Exmark Lawn Boy Toro Z Mower
117-1197 784-1221-210 Starter Solenoid Compatible for Exmark Lawn Boy Toro Z Mower 1-513075 104-3189 117-1197 212655 28-4210 47-1910, 12V 4 Terminal DC Lawn Mower Solenoid
Best for: An alternate solenoid for zero-turn repairs
This is a 4-terminal 12V DC solenoid with a long list of cross-reference numbers. It is useful as a second option if your original part number is not matched by the first solenoid pick.
Key specs
- 12V DC, 4-terminal design
- Lists 784-1221-210, 104-3189, 117-1197 and several others
- Covers Exmark Lawn Boy and Toro Z mower applications
Pros
- Extensive cross-reference list aids fitment checks
- Covers multiple zero-turn brands
- Useful backup if the primary solenoid is out of stock
Cons
- Terminal layout must be compared with the original before installing
- Overlaps heavily with the first solenoid pick, so choose one
Bottom line: Best for zero-turn owners who need a second solenoid option after confirming terminal layout against their current part.
Buying Guide
Diagnose Before You Buy
A clicking solenoid, a dead key switch and a slow crank point to different parts. Test battery voltage first; a healthy battery should read about 12.6 volts at rest. Check the battery terminals and the main ground connection, since loose or corroded connections mimic a failed starter. Only then order a replacement.
Good picks for this: 117-1197 Starter Solenoid for Toro Timecutter; Ignition Switch Starter Solenoid Kit for Toro Zero Turn Lawn Mower
Match the Part Number Exactly
Toro and Exmark use shared part numbers across several models, but cross-references are not always interchangeable. Read the number stamped on the old part and compare it against the listing’s cross-reference list. Check the engine type and displacement as well.
Good picks for this: 117-1197 784-1221-210 Starter Solenoid Compatible for Exmark Lawn Boy Toro Z Mower; Recoil Starter for Kohler XT-Series Recycler Mowers
Know Your Engine Type
Recycler mowers with Kohler XT engines use recoil starters, while larger Kohler twins rely on 12V electric starters. Electric 60-volt Toro models use a different start circuit altogether. Identify whether your mower is recoil, electric-start gas or battery-electric before choosing any part.
Good picks for this: Kohler Starter 7000 Series Mowers; Toro Part # 133-8144 60 Volt Start Push Button
Solenoid Versus Switch Versus Starter Motor
A solenoid is a relay that sends current to the starter motor. A switch is what you turn with the key. The starter motor is the component that actually spins the engine. Replacing the wrong one wastes time, so isolate the fault by listening: a click suggests the solenoid, silence after the key turn suggests the switch or wiring, and a slow grinding crank suggests the starter motor.
Good picks for this: Ignition Switch Starter Solenoid Kit for Toro Zero Turn Lawn Mower; Kohler Starter 7000 Series Mowers
Build Quality and Durability
Aftermarket parts vary in contact material and housing quality. Owners often report that solenoids with heavier terminal contacts hold up better under repeated starts. Recoil assemblies with a stronger rope and spring tend to last longer under frequent use. Expect a replacement solenoid to outlast the original only if the original failed from corrosion rather than wear.
Good picks for this: Powtol XT675 149CC Recoil Starter for Toro Recycler; 117-1197 Starter Solenoid for Toro Timecutter
Care to Extend Starter Life
Keep battery terminals clean and tight, and charge the battery fully before winter storage. Disconnect the battery during long storage periods if the mower has an electric start. Clean the solenoid terminals with a wire brush periodically, and keep the mower’s deck and engine free of grass buildup that can restrict airflow and strain the starter.
Good picks for this: Toro Part # 133-8144 60 Volt Start Push Button; Kohler Starter 7000 Series Mowers
FAQ
Why does my Toro riding mower click but not start?
A rapid clicking sound usually means the solenoid is receiving power but the battery voltage drops too low to turn the starter motor. Check battery charge and terminal connections first. If the battery is strong and the clicking continues, the solenoid contacts may be worn.
Can I replace the solenoid myself?
In most cases, yes. A solenoid swap typically involves disconnecting the battery, removing the wire terminals and two mounting bolts, then reversing the process with the new part. Always disconnect the negative battery cable first. If you are unsure about the wiring, consult a small-engine repair professional.
How do I know if the battery is the problem?
Turn on the headlights or dash display. Dim lights or a weak display point to a discharged or failing battery. Measure resting voltage with a multimeter; a reading well below 12 volts suggests the battery needs charging or replacement before any starter part is tested.
Is a recoil starter the same as an electric starter?
No. A recoil starter is pulled manually by a rope and spins the engine directly, while an electric starter uses a battery-powered motor. Recycler mowers with Kohler XT engines commonly use recoil starters, which is why recoil parts are listed separately from electric starter components.
Why does my mower start in the morning but not after mowing?
Heat can increase electrical resistance in worn connections and weaken a marginal battery. Owners often find that a starter or solenoid that works when cold begins to fail once the engine and components warm up. Clean and tighten connections and test the battery under load.
Does a 60-volt Toro need the same parts as a gas model?
No. Electric 60-volt models use a battery-driven start system with components such as a start push button. Gas-engine models rely on a solenoid, switch and starter motor or recoil assembly. Confirm your model type before ordering any part.
Conclusion
For most zero-turn owners with a clicking no-start, the 117-1197 solenoid is the most direct first step, with the ignition switch kit as the next option if the key circuit is also suspect. Recycler owners with a Kohler XT engine should look at the recoil starter options, with the Powtol unit as the budget route. Owners of larger Kohler twins with slow cranking should consider the 7000 Series starter, and 60-volt electric owners need the Toro start push button. Verify part numbers and engine type before buying, and if the diagnosis remains unclear after checking the battery and connections, consult a qualified small-engine technician.
Sources
- Consumer safety guidance on handling lawn equipment and battery systems (cpsc.gov)
- Background on lead-acid battery care and charging practices (energy.gov)
- Workplace guidance on safe maintenance of powered equipment and electrical isolation (osha.gov)
Related reading
- Toro Lawn Mower Won't Start After Winter: 7 Fixes That Work
- Toro Lawn Mower Won't Start After Sitting: 7 Causes and Fixes
- Toro Electric Start Lawn Mower Won't Start: 8 Parts and Fixes Compared (2026)
- Riding Lawn Mower Won't Start: 7 Causes and Fixes That Work
About Brooke Kingsley
Brooke covers lawn mowers, comparing specs, features and long-term owner feedback to help readers choose with confidence.
