By Graham FisherUpdated November 2026
A Craftsman mower with a Briggs and Stratton engine that won’t start usually comes down to one of a few failing parts: the starter motor, the starter solenoid or relay, the recoil rope and handle, or the battery circuit feeding them. Choosing the right replacement means checking fit against your engine and model before you buy. The seven parts below were compared on listing details, brand reputation, compatibility with Briggs and Stratton and Craftsman engines, and patterns that owners commonly report, not on hands-on testing.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overall5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth) Replacement for Briggs & Stratton 5View on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for multi-brand fitStarter Solenoid 12V 4 Pole for Briggs Stratton Cub Cadet CraftsmanView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for 12–19.5 HP riding mowersBDELI 030221 33R877 12-19.5 HP Starter Replacement 14 TeethView on Amazon - 4
Best genuine OEM starterBriggs & Stratton 14-Tooth Electric Starter Genuine Lawn Mower Starter MotorView on Amazon - 5
Best for small engine recoil repairsBriggs & Stratton Pull Cord and Handle Replacement Starter Rope and Grip KitView on Amazon - 6
Best for high-HP enginesBriggs and Stratton Motor Starter 593934 693551 12HP-21HPView on Amazon - 7
Best budget pick for solenoid swapsStarter Solenoid Relay Replace for Briggs Stratton 146154 CraftsmanView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
The table below summarizes how the seven parts differ. Match the part number to your existing starter or solenoid before ordering, since many listings cross-reference several engine families.
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| 5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth) | Overall starter replacement | 14-tooth steel gear drive |
| Starter Solenoid 12V 4 Pole | Multi-brand solenoid swap | 4-pole 12V design |
| BDELI 14 Teeth Starter Replacement | 12–19.5 HP riding mowers | Wide HP range cross-reference |
| Briggs & Stratton 14-Tooth Electric Starter | Genuine OEM replacement | Briggs & Stratton branded part |
| Briggs & Stratton Pull Cord and Handle Kit | Recoil starter repairs | Starter rope and grip kit |
| Briggs and Stratton Motor Starter 593934 | High-HP engines | Cross-referenced for 12–21 HP |
| Starter Solenoid Relay 146154 | Budget solenoid replacement | Relay for Briggs and Craftsman |
5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth) Replacement for Briggs & Stratton 593934 693551 Craftsman Lawn Mower Tractor
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: Overall starter replacement on riding mowers and tractors with a 14-tooth flywheel ring gear.
This is a good fit if your mower cranks slowly, makes a single click, or spins without engaging the flywheel, and you want a starter that cross-references several Briggs and Stratton and Craftsman part numbers.
Key specs
- 14-tooth starter gear
- Listed cross-references include Briggs & Stratton 593934 and 693551
- Steel gear construction
Pros
- Clear part number cross-reference in the listing title
- Steel gear is a common upgrade over plastic-geared designs
- Covers a broad range of tractor and mower models
Cons
- Third-party part, so quality can vary between production runs
- Requires matching the existing starter’s mounting pattern before installation
Bottom line: A strong first choice for most owners whose starter has failed and who want a cross-referenced replacement.
Starter Solenoid 12V 4 Pole for Briggs Stratton Cub Cadet Craftsman
Fits Briggs & Stratton, Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Honda, Husqvarna, John Deer, MTD, Toro Lawn Mower 4 Pole Starter Solenoid 12V for Briggs Stratton Cub Cadet Craftsman 146154
Best for: Multi-brand solenoid swap when a click without cranking points to a bad solenoid.
Owners with a mower that clicks when the key is turned, but the starter motor does not spin, often find the solenoid is the failing part. This part is listed for several brands, so it suits mixed-equipment households.
Key specs
- 12V system
- 4-pole solenoid design
- Listed for Briggs & Stratton, Craftsman, Cub Cadet and other brands
Pros
- Wide brand compatibility listing
- Targets a common, inexpensive-to-replace failure point
- Straightforward terminal layout for most swaps
Cons
- Multi-brand listings can be ambiguous, so confirm the part number matches yours
- Does not fix a dead battery or a worn starter motor
Bottom line: Best for owners who have confirmed the solenoid is the problem and want a broadly compatible replacement.
BDELI 030221 33R877 12-19.5 HP Starter Replacement 14 Teeth
BDELI030221 33R877, 12-19.5 HP Cub Cadet 11 16 18 RTZ LT1018 John Deere D100 105 L100 New Holland Toro Briggs and Stratton Starter Replacement 14 Teeth 593934 693551
Best for: 12–19.5 HP riding mowers and lawn tractors with a 14-tooth starter.
This suits owners with a riding mower in the 12–19.5 HP range who need a starter that lists several engine and brand cross-references, including Briggs and Stratton 593934 and 693551.
Key specs
- 14-tooth gear
- Listed for 12–19.5 HP engines
- Cross-references include 33R877 and 593934
Pros
- Covers a wide horsepower range in one listing
- Multiple part number cross-references in the title
- Commonly chosen as a direct replacement for failed starters
Cons
- Third-party construction, so verify fit before installation
- Some owners report needing to reuse the original mounting hardware
Bottom line: A practical pick for riding mower owners whose engine falls within the listed horsepower range.
Briggs & Stratton 14-Tooth Electric Starter Genuine Lawn Mower Starter Motor
Briggs & Stratton14-tooth electric starter for select riding mower and lawn tractor engines 593934 Genuine Lawn Mower Starter Motor
Best for: Owners who want a genuine Briggs & Stratton replacement for select riding mower and lawn tractor engines.
If you prefer an original-brand starter and your engine is one of the models listed, this is the most direct route. It is a good choice when warranty or resale matters.
Key specs
- 14-tooth electric starter
- Briggs & Stratton part number 593934
- Designed for select riding mower and lawn tractor engines
Pros
- Manufacturer-branded part
- Specified for select Briggs & Stratton engines
- Generally easier to confirm fit than multi-brand listings
Cons
- Limited to the engine families the manufacturer lists
- Typically priced above third-party equivalents, which some budget buyers may find less appealing
Bottom line: The safest choice for owners with a listed Briggs & Stratton engine who want OEM-branded parts.
Briggs & Stratton Pull Cord and Handle Replacement Starter Rope and Grip Kit
Briggs & StrattonPull cord and handle replacement for select 2 to 4 HP small engines 5042K Genuine Starter Rope and Grip Kit
Best for: Recoil starter repairs on small Briggs and Stratton engines when the rope frays or the handle breaks.
If your mower has a pull start and the engine does not turn over when you pull, the rope or handle may be the issue. This kit addresses the rope and grip, not the starter motor, so confirm you have a recoil-start engine first.
Key specs
- Pull cord and handle kit
- Listed for select 2 to 4 HP small engines
- Briggs & Stratton part number 5042K
Pros
- Inexpensive way to restore recoil function
- Manufacturer-branded replacement
- Installation is usually a bench-level repair
Cons
- Only relevant to recoil-start engines, not electric start
- Recoil spring or pawl wear may also need attention on older units
Bottom line: Right for push mower owners whose pull cord snapped or whose handle no longer grips.
Briggs and Stratton Motor Starter 593934 693551 12HP-21HP
Briggs and Stratton Motor Starter 593934 693551 12HP-21HP Fit 31C707 31R907 31P777 John Deere Z225 D105 L100 Troy Bilt Craftsman DLT-3000 Husqvarna PP19A42 YTH18542 MIA13018 SE501848 5777N
Best for: Higher-horsepower engines in the 12–21 HP range that need a starter cross-referenced across many brands.
Owners with a larger riding mower or garden tractor will find this listing useful because it cross-references a long list of brands and part numbers in the 12–21 HP range.
Key specs
- Listed for 12–21 HP engines
- Cross-references include Briggs & Stratton 593934 and 693551
- Also listed for several John Deere, Troy-Bilt and Husqvarna models
Pros
- Broad horsepower and brand cross-reference
- Useful for owners with a higher-HP Briggs & Stratton engine
- Matches common starter part numbers in the listing
Cons
- Long cross-reference lists make fit confirmation essential
- Third-party part, so quality consistency is not guaranteed
Bottom line: A good match for higher-HP riding mower owners who confirm their starter part number against the listing.
Starter Solenoid Relay Replace for Briggs Stratton 146154 Craftsman
Starter Solenoid Relay Replace for Briggs Stratton 146154 Craftsman 145673 AYP 109946 John Deere L100 L110 L118 L120 Cub Cadet 725-04439
Best for: A budget solenoid or relay swap when the engine clicks but does not crank.
This relay is listed for Briggs & Stratton 146154 and several Craftsman and other brand applications. It is a sensible first replacement to test if the starter circuit is failing.
Key specs
- Relay type starter solenoid
- Cross-reference includes Briggs & Stratton 146154 and Craftsman 145673
- Listed for several riding mower brands
Pros
- Typically a lower-cost option for solenoid replacement
- Clear part number cross-reference
- Simple swap on most riding mower layouts
Cons
- Relay quality can vary between third-party sources
- Does not address a weak battery or damaged wiring
Bottom line: The best starting point for owners on a tight budget who suspect the solenoid or relay.
Buying Guide
Confirm Which Part Failed
Before buying, separate the symptoms. A single click with no cranking usually points to the solenoid or battery. A whirring sound without engine turnover often means a worn starter gear. If the engine has no start cord action at all, check the recoil rope.
Good picks for this: Starter Solenoid 12V 4 Pole, Starter Solenoid Relay 146154
Match the Part Number
Read the engine model plate, then the existing starter’s part number stamped on its body. Compare these against the cross-references in each listing rather than relying on the mower brand alone.
Good picks for this: 5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth), Briggs & Stratton 14-Tooth Electric Starter
Check Horsepower Range
Engine horsepower affects starter torque requirements. Confirm the listed HP range covers your engine, especially on 12–21 HP riding mowers where ranges overlap.
Good picks for this: BDELI 030221 33R877 12-19.5 HP Starter, Briggs and Stratton Motor Starter 593934
Choose Genuine or Aftermarket
Genuine parts simplify fit confirmation and warranty questions. Aftermarket parts can save money but require careful cross-reference checking and, in some cases, reuse of original mounting hardware.
Good picks for this: Briggs & Stratton 14-Tooth Electric Starter, 5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth)
Evaluate Gear and Materials
Steel starter gears generally hold up better than plastic under repeated cranking. Look for listings that specify steel construction and inspect the flywheel ring gear for chipped teeth when you replace the starter.
Good picks for this: 5777 Steel Gear Starter (14-Teeth), BDELI 030221 33R877 12-19.5 HP Starter
Recoil Starter Components
On pull-start engines, rope wear, a broken handle, or a worn recoil pawl all cause no-start conditions. Replacing the rope and handle is often the fastest fix, but inspect the spring and pulley for damage.
Good picks for this: Briggs & Stratton Pull Cord and Handle Kit
Battery and Wiring Care
Before replacing expensive parts, check battery voltage with a multimeter and clean battery terminals. Corroded cables and loose ground connections mimic starter failure.
Good picks for this: Starter Solenoid Relay 146154, Starter Solenoid 12V 4 Pole
FAQ
Why does my Craftsman Briggs and Stratton mower click but not start?
A click without cranking usually means the solenoid is receiving power but not transferring enough current to the starter motor. Low battery voltage, corroded terminals, or a failing solenoid are the most common causes. Test battery voltage first.
Can I replace the starter myself?
Many owners replace starters with basic hand tools, but you should disconnect the spark plug wire and battery first. If you are uncomfortable working around the engine or electrical system, consult a qualified small engine technician.
Do I need to match the Briggs and Stratton part number exactly?
Yes, as closely as possible. Cross-referenced parts are designed to fit, but mounting pattern, gear tooth count and electrical connections all matter. Compare the number stamped on your existing part with each listing.
What if the engine turns over but does not start?
If the starter spins the engine, the problem is usually fuel, spark or air rather than the starter. Check fuel freshness, spark plug condition and the air filter before replacing starter components.
Is a recoil rope repair enough if the mower has an electric start?
No. Recoil ropes only apply to pull-start engines. Electric-start mowers need the starter motor, solenoid or battery addressed instead.
How do I know if the battery is the real problem?
Charge the battery fully and test it under load. A battery that will not hold a charge or drops sharply when cranking should be replaced before you buy a starter.
Conclusion
For most Craftsman mowers with Briggs and Stratton engines, the first step is diagnosing whether the starter, solenoid, recoil components or battery has failed. The 5777 Steel Gear Starter suits owners who need a cross-referenced starter replacement. The Starter Solenoid 12V 4 Pole and Starter Solenoid Relay 146154 are the sensible choices when the symptom is a click. The Briggs & Stratton 14-Tooth Electric Starter is the best pick when you want a genuine part. The Briggs & Stratton Pull Cord and Handle Kit addresses recoil problems, and the Briggs and Stratton Motor Starter 593934 and BDELI starter suit higher-horsepower riding mowers. Always verify the part number against your existing component before ordering.
Sources
- Consumer safety guidance on small engine and lawn equipment hazards, including starting precautions (cpsc.gov)
- Workplace safety guidance on battery handling and electrical hazards relevant to starter and battery work (osha.gov)
- Background on lead-acid battery maintenance and charging practices (energy.gov)
Related reading
- Briggs and Stratton Toro Lawn Mower Won't Start: 7 Fixes That Work
- Briggs and Stratton Lawn Mower Won't Start: 6 Replacement Parts Compared (2026)
- Briggs and Stratton Brute Lawn Mower Won't Start: 7 Causes and Fixes
- Craftsman V20 Lawn Mower Won't Start: 6 Best Replacement Parts (2026)
- Craftsman M320 Lawn Mower Won't Start: Step-by-Step Fixes
- Craftsman M260 Lawn Mower Won't Start: 8 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.
