By Graham FisherUpdated November 2026
When a bolens lawn mower won’t start, the cause is often a worn recoil starter, a failing starter solenoid or a weak connection in the starting circuit. This guide compares seven replacement parts sold on Amazon US that match common Bolens and Troy-Bilt starting systems. The selection method weighs fit against listed model numbers, the type of starter component, how well the listing names the compatible machines, and the patterns owners commonly describe about installation and reliability. None of these products were tested by us; the comparisons draw on specifications and owner feedback patterns.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallRecoil Start Pull Starter Assembly Replacement for Bolens 11A-B06R765,View on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for Bolens-specific recoil fitRecoil Pull Starter for Bolens Walk Behind Mower Model# 11A-B0BL765 YView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for a complete starter cup kitHOQO Recoil Start Pull Starter Assembly & Starter Cup for Bolens 11A-BView on Amazon - 4
Best for solenoid replacement on Exmark-style systemsFits for exmark OEM 117-1197, 1-513075, direct replacement, copper conView on Amazon - 5
Best for a professional-style relayStarter Solenoid Relay High Replacement for BolensGilson Tractor LawnView on Amazon - 6
Best budget pickSolenoid Starter 1751569 Fits for BolensView on Amazon - 7
Best for a general-purpose solenoidFABULETTA For Bolens Starter Solenoid, For 117-1197 Starter Solenoid,View on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Recoil Start Pull Starter Assembly for Bolens 11A-B06R765 | Recoil rope failures on walk-behind models | Lists several Bolens and Troy-Bilt model numbers |
| Recoil Pull Starter for Bolens Model 11A-B0BL765 Y | Bolens-specific recoil replacement | Named to a single Bolens model number |
| HOQO Recoil Start Pull Starter Assembly & Starter Cup | Full recoil rebuild with cup | Includes starter cup with the assembly |
| Fits for exmark OEM 117-1197 Starter Solenoid | Solenoid replacement on compatible mowers | Copper contacts per listing |
| Starter Solenoid Relay High Replacement for Bolens Gilson | Relay swap on tractor-style mowers | Professional-style relay design |
| Solenoid Starter 1751569 Fits for Bolens | Budget solenoid replacement | Part number match for Bolens 1751569 |
| FABULETTA Starter Solenoid for Riding Mower | General solenoid replacement | Broad compatibility listing |
Recoil Start Pull Starter Assembly Replacement for Bolens 11A-B06R765, 11A-B0BL765, 11A-020W765 and Troy Bilt 11A-A23O711 Lawn Mowers
Recoil Start Pull Starter Assembly Replacement for Bolens 11A-B06R765, 11A-B0BL765, 11A-020W765 and Troy Bilt 11A-A23O711 Lawn Mowers, Durable and Easy Installation
Best for: Owners whose bolens lawn mower won’t start because the recoil rope snaps or the pawls fail to engage.
This is a full pull-start assembly that covers several Bolens and Troy-Bilt model numbers, which makes it a sensible choice if you are not sure of the exact sub-model. It suits anyone who has already confirmed the engine turns over but the rope does not spin the crankshaft.
Key specs
- Recoil start pull starter assembly
- Listed for Bolens 11A-B06R765, 11A-B0BL765 and 11A-020W765
- Listed for Troy-Bilt 11A-A23O711
Pros
- Covers multiple model numbers in one listing
- Assembly-level replacement avoids separate pawl hunting
- Installation is typically a bolt-on job with basic hand tools
Cons
- Fitment depends on matching your exact model number
- Some owners report needing to transfer the rope handle
Bottom line: A strong first choice for most owners who need a complete recoil assembly and want broad Bolens compatibility.
Recoil Pull Starter for Bolens Walk Behind Mower Model# 11A-B0BL765 Y
Recoil Pull Starter for Bolens Walk Behind Mower Model# 11A-B0BL765 Y
Best for: Bolens-specific recoil replacement on a confirmed 11A-B0BL765 walk-behind.
This listing is tied to one Bolens model number, so it suits owners who have already matched their mower’s model plate. It avoids the guesswork of a multi-model listing.
Key specs
- Recoil pull starter for Bolens walk-behind mower
- Model reference 11A-B0BL765
Pros
- Single-model listing reduces fitment confusion
- Straightforward recoil replacement
- Fits a common walk-behind configuration
Cons
- Narrow compatibility if your model differs
- Owners should verify the starter cup is included or reused
Bottom line: Best for owners who have confirmed the 11A-B0BL765 model number and want a direct match.
HOQO Recoil Start Pull Starter Assembly & Starter Cup for Bolens 11A-B06R765 11A-B0BL765 11A-020W765 Troy Bilt 11A-A23O711 Lawn Mower
HOQO Recoil Start Pull Starter Assembly & Starter Cup for Bolens 11A-B06R765 11A-B0BL765 11A-020W765 Troy Bilt 11A-A23O711 Lawn Mower
Best for: A complete recoil rebuild that includes the starter cup.
Owners who find a worn cup alongside a broken rope often prefer a kit that addresses both parts at once. This listing covers the same Bolens and Troy-Bilt model numbers as the first pick.
Key specs
- Recoil start pull starter assembly
- Starter cup included per listing
- Listed for Bolens 11A-B06R765, 11A-B0BL765, 11A-020W765
Pros
- Includes starter cup, reducing extra parts
- Broad model-number coverage
- Good option for a full recoil refresh
Cons
- Fitment still depends on exact model match
- Owners report variation in spring tension over time
Bottom line: Pick this if your recoil rope and cup both look worn and you want one kit to fix them.
Fits for exmark OEM 117-1197, 1-513075, direct replacement, copper contacts, reliable ignition Aftermarket for starter Solenoid for Bolens Mowers Aftermarket
Fits for exmark OEM 117-1197, 1-513075, direct replacement, copper contacts, reliable ignition Aftermarket for starter Solenoid for Bolens Mowers Aftermarket
Best for: Solenoid replacement on mowers where the old solenoid clicks but the engine does not crank.
A bad solenoid is a common reason a bolens lawn mower won’t start even when the battery is charged. This listing cross-references an OEM part number, which helps owners confirm fit before buying.
Key specs
- Cross-reference to Exmark OEM 117-1197 and 1-513075
- Listed as a direct replacement
Pros
- Cross-reference numbers aid fitment checks
- Copper contacts per listing
- Direct replacement design
Cons
- Exmark cross-reference may not match every Bolens layout
- Verify terminal positions before installing
Bottom line: Best if you can match the cross-reference number to your old solenoid.
Starter Solenoid Relay High Replacement for BolensGilson Tractor Lawn Mower, Professional Manufacturing, for Outdoor Enthusiasts 1 X Starter Solenoid Relay
Starter Solenoid Relay High Replacement for BolensGilson Tractor Lawn Mower, Professional Manufacturing, for Outdoor Enthusiasts 1 X Starter Solenoid Relay
Best for: Relay replacement on tractor-style mowers with a heavier starting circuit.
Owners of larger Bolens-style tractors may find the relay, rather than a solenoid, is the failing part. This listing is aimed at that type of machine.
Key specs
- Starter solenoid relay
- Listed for Bolens Gilson tractor-style mowers
Pros
- Targets the relay in the starting circuit
- Single-piece replacement
- Suited to tractor-type applications
Cons
- Listing wording is less precise on model numbers
- Confirm the relay’s terminal count against the old unit
Bottom line: A reasonable pick for tractor-style Bolens owners whose relay has failed.
Solenoid Starter 1751569 Fits for Bolens
Solenoid Starter 1751569 Fits for Bolens
Best for: A budget solenoid replacement when you already have the 1751569 number.
This is a short, part-number-driven listing. It works best for owners who have read the number off the old solenoid.
Key specs
- Starter solenoid
- Part number 1751569 referenced in listing
Pros
- Simple part-number match
- Lower-cost option in the group
- Easy swap on compatible units
Cons
- Limited detail in the listing
- Owners should check build quality on arrival
Bottom line: Good for owners who want a budget solenoid and can match 1751569 exactly.
FABULETTA For Bolens Starter Solenoid, For 117-1197 Starter Solenoid, For Exmark Starter Solenoid, For Aftermarket Starter Solenoid, For Riding Mower Starter Solenoid
FABULETTA For Bolens Starter Solenoid, For 117-1197 Starter Solenoid, For Exmark Starter Solenoid, For Aftermarket Starter Solenoid, For Riding Mower Starter Solenoid
Best for: General solenoid replacement on riding mowers when you want broad compatibility language.
This listing names several cross-references, so it may suit owners who are unsure which exact solenoid their machine uses.
Key specs
- Starter solenoid for riding mower
- Cross-referenced to 117-1197
Pros
- Multiple cross-references help narrow fit
- Applies to riding and tractor-style mowers
- Straightforward replacement design
Cons
- Broad wording means fit must be verified manually
- Terminal layout can differ from OEM
Bottom line: Suitable for riding mower owners who can check terminals against the old solenoid.
Buying Guide
Starter type: recoil assembly versus solenoid or relay
Before buying, confirm which component has failed. A recoil system that will not grip usually means the pawls, rope or cup, while a solenoid that clicks but does not crank points to the starter circuit. Testing voltage at the solenoid with a multimeter can separate the two.
Good picks for this: Recoil Start Pull Starter Assembly Replacement for Bolens 11A-B06R765; Starter Solenoid Relay High Replacement for Bolens Gilson Tractor Lawn Mower
Model number matching
Check the model plate, usually on the deck or frame, and compare it to each listing. Bolens and Troy-Bilt machines share parts across several model numbers, but not all. A mismatch is the most common reason a replacement fails to fit.
Good picks for this: Recoil Pull Starter for Bolens Model 11A-B0BL765 Y; HOQO Recoil Start Pull Starter Assembly & Starter Cup
Cross-reference numbers
Aftermarket parts often list OEM cross-references. Match the OEM number on the old part to the listing rather than relying on the product title alone. Terminal count and bolt pattern matter as much as the number.
Good picks for this: Fits for exmark OEM 117-1197 Starter Solenoid; FABULETTA Starter Solenoid for Riding Mower
Included hardware and starter cup
Some recoil listings include the cup, springs and bolts, while others expect you to reuse the originals. If your old cup is cracked or worn, buy a kit that includes it.
Good picks for this: HOQO Recoil Start Pull Starter Assembly & Starter Cup; Recoil Start Pull Starter Assembly Replacement for Bolens 11A-B06R765
Budget versus durability
A lower-cost solenoid can be a sensible fix on an older machine. For a part that is hard to reach or that you expect to use for years, weigh build quality and contact design more heavily than the initial outlay.
Good picks for this: Solenoid Starter 1751569 Fits for Bolens; Fits for exmark OEM 117-1197 Starter Solenoid
Installation difficulty
Recoil replacements usually require removing the blower housing or shroud. Solenoid swaps generally need only a socket set and a voltmeter. Disconnect the spark plug wire and the battery before working on any starter component.
Good picks for this: Recoil Pull Starter for Bolens Model 11A-B0BL765 Y; FABULETTA Starter Solenoid for Riding Mower
Use case: walk-behind versus tractor-style
Walk-behind mowers use a recoil starter, while tractor-style machines often use a key or electric start with a solenoid and relay. Match the part to the starting system your mower actually has.
Good picks for this: Starter Solenoid Relay High Replacement for Bolens Gilson Tractor Lawn Mower; Recoil Start Pull Starter Assembly Replacement for Bolens 11A-B06R765
FAQ
Why does my bolens lawn mower won’t start even though the battery is good?
A good battery does not rule out a failed solenoid, a loose cable or a bad ignition switch. Check the solenoid for a click when the key is turned, and test voltage at the starter terminals with a multimeter.
How do I know if the recoil or the solenoid has failed?
If the recoil rope pulls freely with no resistance, the pawls or cup are likely worn. If the mower has electric start and the solenoid clicks without cranking, the solenoid or relay is the more probable cause.
Will any Bolens recoil starter fit my mower?
No. Recoil assemblies vary by model number. Confirm the number on your mower’s model plate against each listing before ordering.
Can I reuse the starter cup when replacing the recoil?
Sometimes. Inspect the cup for cracks and worn teeth. If it shows wear, buying a kit that includes a new cup is usually the safer choice.
Should I replace the solenoid if it clicks but the engine does not crank?
A click without cranking often points to a weak connection or a failing solenoid. Test the battery and cable voltage first, then the solenoid, before replacing parts.
Are aftermarket starter parts reliable?
Reliability varies by brand and listing. Match cross-reference numbers carefully, check terminal layout, and inspect the part on arrival. Owners often report better results when fitment is confirmed before installation.
When should I take the mower to a small engine shop?
If you are uncomfortable working near the flywheel, the spark plug or high-current starter wiring, consult a qualified small engine technician. Safety comes first when working on any engine.
Conclusion
For most owners whose bolens lawn mower won’t start because of a worn recoil, the complete assembly from the first listing is the most sensible starting point. Owners who already know their model number may prefer the Bolens-specific recoil pull starter. For a full recoil rebuild that includes a cup, the HOQO kit is worth comparing. If the solenoid is the problem, match the cross-reference number and consider the Exmark-referenced solenoid or the budget 1751569 part. For tractor-style relays, the Gilson-referenced relay fits that niche. Always confirm fitment before buying.
Sources
- Consumer safety guidance on power equipment and small engine handling (cpsc.gov)
- Workplace safety standards for working with batteries and electrical equipment (osha.gov)
- Background on battery systems and electrical circuit safety (energy.gov)
Related reading: Troubleshooting a Lawn Mower That Won't Start: 8 Steps to Fix It covers the diagnostic sequence before you buy parts, and Riding Lawn Mower Won't Start: 7 Causes and Fixes That Work is useful if your machine uses a key start. For a closely related model, see Troy Bilt TB110 Lawn Mower Won't Start: 8 Causes and Fixes, and for solenoid-specific problems, Riding Lawn Mower Won't Start No Clicking: 7 Causes and Fixes.
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.
