By Graham FisherUpdated November 2026
When a murray 500e series lawn mower won’t start, the pull starter is one of the most common failure points, and a worn or broken recoil assembly is often the cause. This guide compares six replacement starter options sold on Amazon, each matched to a specific repair need. The selection method was research-based: we looked at how each listing describes model compatibility, the type of starter it is, what the included hardware looks like, and patterns in owner feedback about fit and durability. None of these parts were installed or tested by the author.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallRecoil Pull Starter for Murray 21" 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758View on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for a model-specific rewind swapRecoil Rewind Pull Starter Assembly for Murray 21" 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758View on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for a rope-only repairPull cord and handle replacement for select 2 to 4 HP small engines BrView on Amazon - 4
Best for multi-model compatibilityLawn Mower Starter Plastic Pull Start Replacement for 593959 300E 450EView on Amazon - 5
Best for a full starter assemblyStarter 500E Lawn Mower Machine Assembly Fit for 450E 550E 575EX GrassView on Amazon - 6
Best budget pick#US Starter Parts Pull Recoil Starter for Murray 21" 500E Push Mower MView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Recoil Pull Starter for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758 | Direct model match on a 21-inch 500E | Listed for model 11A-A2BF758 |
| Briggs & Stratton 5042K Genuine Starter Rope and Grip Kit | Rope and handle repair only | Replaces the cord and grip, not the whole starter |
| Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Assembly for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758 | Full rewind assembly swap on the same model | Complete rewind unit for the 21-inch model |
| Lawn Mower Starter Plastic Pull Start Replacement for 300E through 625E series | Owners with several Murray E-series mowers | Plastic pull start covering many model numbers |
| Starter 500E Lawn Mower Machine Assembly Fit for 450E 550E 575EX | Complete starter assembly for related E-series models | Full assembly listed across several models |
| #US Starter Parts Pull Recoil Starter for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758 | Budget-minded owners with a 21-inch 500E | Recoil starter for the same model number |
Recoil Pull Starter for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758
Recoil Pull Starter for Murray 21" 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758
Best for: A direct, model-matched recoil starter on a 21-inch Murray 500E push mower.
This is the most straightforward choice for an owner who has confirmed the mower’s model number matches 11A-A2BF758. The listing is written around that exact model, which reduces the guesswork that often comes with multi-model parts.
Key specs
- Designed for a 21-inch Murray 500E push mower
- Listed model number: 11A-A2BF758
- Replacement recoil pull starter type
Pros
- Written for a specific model number, which simplifies fit checking
- Addresses the most common failure point on this mower
- Straightforward to compare against the old unit
Cons
- Only useful if your model number matches exactly
- Installation still requires removing the mower’s engine shroud and recoil housing
Bottom line: Best for owners who have confirmed model 11A-A2BF758 and want a targeted replacement.
Pull cord and handle replacement for select 2 to 4 HP small engines Briggs & Stratton 5042K Genuine Starter Rope and Grip Kit
Pull cord and handle replacement for select 2 to 4 HP small engines Briggs & Stratton 5042K Genuine Starter Rope and Grip Kit
Best for: Replacing a frayed or broken starter rope and handle without replacing the whole recoil assembly.
If the recoil spring still retracts the rope but the cord has frayed or snapped, a rope and grip kit can be a lower-effort repair. The listing describes it as a genuine Briggs & Stratton part for select small engines, so confirm your engine is covered before buying.
Key specs
- Starter rope and grip kit
- Listed for select 2 to 4 HP small engines
- Brand: Briggs & Stratton (part 5042K)
Pros
- Lower-cost repair path when only the rope has failed
- Genuine manufacturer part number
- Does not require removing the full recoil housing
Cons
- Does not help if the internal spring or pawl is broken
- Compatibility depends on the engine, so a Murray-specific listing may be a safer choice
Bottom line: A sensible first step if the rope is the only visible problem and the recoil still has tension.
Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Assembly for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758
Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Assembly for Murray 21" 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758
Best for: A complete rewind assembly swap for a 21-inch 500E that won’t retract or has a broken pawl.
When the rewind spring is weak or the pawl has worn down, the rope may not return properly or the engine may not turn over. A full rewind assembly addresses those internal failures in one part.
Key specs
- Complete recoil rewind assembly
- Designed for 21-inch Murray 500E model 11A-A2BF758
Pros
- Replaces internal components, not just the rope
- Model-specific listing
- Useful when the rope won’t retract
Cons
- More involved installation than a rope swap
- Requires confirming the model number before ordering
Bottom line: Pick this when the rewind mechanism has failed and you are comfortable replacing the assembly.
Lawn Mower Starter Plastic Pull Start Replacement for 593959 300E 450E 500E 550E 550EX 575EX 600E 625E
Lawn Mower Starter Plastic Pull Start Replacement for 593959 300E 450E 500E 550E 550EX 575EX 600E 625E
Best for: Owners with several Murray E-series mowers who want one part that covers multiple model numbers.
This listing names a range of Murray E-series model numbers, which can be useful if you own more than one unit or are unsure of your exact configuration. Check your mower’s model plate against the list before ordering.
Key specs
- Plastic pull start replacement
- Listed compatibility includes 593959 and the 300E through 625E series
Pros
- Covers many Murray E-series model numbers
- Plastic construction is lightweight
- Helpful for owners managing several mowers
Cons
- Multi-model listings can be less precise than a single-model fit
- Plastic components may wear faster than metal equivalents under heavy use
Bottom line: A good choice when model numbers are close but not identical, provided you verify compatibility first.
Starter 500E Lawn Mower Machine Assembly Fit for 450E 550E 575EX Grass Lawn Mower Generator
Starter 500E Lawn Mower Machine Assembly Fit for 450E 550E 575EX Grass Lawn Mower Generator
Best for: A full starter assembly for owners whose 500E or related E-series mower needs more than a rope or single component.
A complete starter assembly can be the better option when several parts of the recoil system show wear at once. The listing covers related E-series models, so verify your model before purchase.
Key specs
- Complete starter assembly
- Listed fit: 450E, 550E, 575EX and 500E series
Pros
- Replaces the full starting mechanism
- Covers several related E-series models
- Addresses multiple wear points in one part
Cons
- Costs more effort to install than a rope swap
- Multi-model fit means checking the exact dimensions and mounting points
Bottom line: Suited to owners who want a complete starter replacement across a range of related E-series mowers.
#US Starter Parts Pull Recoil Starter for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758 – (diepparts#131026.08359)
#US Starter Parts Pull Recoil Starter for Murray 21" 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758 – (diepparts#131026.08359)
Best for: A budget-minded recoil replacement for a 21-inch 500E with a confirmed model number.
This option is model-specific like the top pick but is positioned as a value alternative. Compare the part reference number against your original starter before installing.
Key specs
- Recoil pull starter
- Designed for 21-inch Murray 500E model 11A-A2BF758
- Listed reference: diepparts#131026.08359
Pros
- Model-specific listing
- Value-oriented option
- Includes a reference number for cross-checking
Cons
- Third-party part, so fit and finish may vary from the original
- Owner experiences with aftermarket starters differ, so check return terms
Bottom line: A reasonable choice for a confirmed 500E owner who wants a lower-cost recoil replacement.
Buying Guide
Confirm Your Exact Model Number
Murray 500E series mowers share a family name, but model numbers differ by deck width, engine and production year. Find the plate on the mower’s frame or engine shroud and match it to the listing before ordering. Mismatched starters are the most common reason a replacement fails to fit.
Good picks for this: Recoil Pull Starter for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758; Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Assembly for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758
Rope-Only Damage Versus Internal Failure
If the rope snaps near the handle but the recoil still retracts firmly, a rope and grip kit may be enough. If the rope won’t return, the pull feels loose, or the engine doesn’t turn over, the rewind spring or pawl is more likely at fault and a full assembly makes more sense.
Good picks for this: Briggs & Stratton 5042K Genuine Starter Rope and Grip Kit; Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Assembly for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758
Single-Model Fit Versus Multi-Model Compatibility
Single-model listings reduce guesswork. Multi-model listings are useful when your mower is close to a listed number but not identical. Compare the listed model numbers against your plate and check mounting holes and shroud clearance before installing.
Good picks for this: Lawn Mower Starter Plastic Pull Start Replacement for 593959 300E 450E 500E 550E 550EX 575EX 600E 625E; Starter 500E Lawn Mower Machine Assembly Fit for 450E 550E 575EX
Rewind Spring and Pawl Condition
Inspect the pawl, which engages the flywheel, for wear or cracks. A rewind spring that has lost tension may pull weakly or fail to return the rope. Replacing the whole assembly addresses both at once.
Good picks for this: Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Assembly for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758; Starter 500E Lawn Mower Machine Assembly Fit for 450E 550E 575EX
Material and Durability
Plastic starter housings are lighter and cheaper to produce but can crack under repeated hard pulls, especially in cold weather. Metal components generally tolerate more stress. Owners often report that replacing a plastic starter with a like-for-like part gives similar service life, so match the original design when in doubt.
Good picks for this: Lawn Mower Starter Plastic Pull Start Replacement for 593959 300E 450E 500E 550E 550EX 575EX 600E 625E; #US Starter Parts Pull Recoil Starter for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758 – (diepparts#131026.08359)
Installation Effort and Tools
Replacing a recoil starter typically involves removing the engine shroud, disconnecting the spark plug wire, and unbolting the starter housing. A basic socket set and screwdriver handle most mowers. A rope swap is simpler and can often be done in a short session. Disconnect the spark plug before any work near the blade or engine.
Good picks for this: Briggs & Stratton 5042K Genuine Starter Rope and Grip Kit; Recoil Pull Starter for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758
Checking Engine Compatibility Beyond the Starter
A new starter won’t help if the problem is fuel, spark or compression. Before ordering, confirm the mower is getting fresh fuel, the spark plug is firing, and the oil level is correct. The related troubleshooting articles on this site cover those checks in more detail.
Good picks for this: Recoil Pull Starter for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758; #US Starter Parts Pull Recoil Starter for Murray 21″ 500E Push Mower Model 11A-A2BF758 – (diepparts#131026.08359)
FAQ
Why won’t my murray 500e series lawn mower start even though the pull cord moves?
If the cord moves freely but the engine doesn’t turn, the recoil pawl may not be engaging the flywheel. Worn or broken pawls are a common cause. Fuel, spark and oil level should also be checked, since a starter alone can’t fix those.
How do I find the correct model number for a Murray 500E?
Look for a plate or sticker on the mower’s frame, deck or engine shroud. The model number is usually printed alongside the serial number. Match it exactly to the listing before ordering a starter.
Can I replace only the rope on a Murray 500E starter?
Yes, if the rope is the only damaged part and the recoil still retracts with normal tension. If the rope won’t return or the spring feels weak, a rope swap is unlikely to solve the problem.
Is a plastic starter good enough for a Murray lawn mower?
Plastic starters are common on this type of mower and work well when installed correctly. Owners often report that cracking happens more under repeated hard pulls or cold conditions, so avoid over-tightening the mounting bolts.
Should I replace the full starter assembly or just the recoil spring?
If the spring, pawl and housing show wear at the same time, a full assembly is usually simpler than replacing individual parts. Isolated spring failure can sometimes be addressed separately, but availability varies by model.
What should I check before installing a new starter?
Disconnect the spark plug wire, confirm the model number, and inspect the flywheel and mounting points for damage. Make sure the old starter is fully removed and the new one seats flush before reinstalling the shroud.
When should I stop repairing and consult a professional?
If you see cracks in the flywheel, damaged crankshaft components, or fuel leaks, stop and consult a qualified small-engine technician. Work on fuel systems and internal engine parts carries fire and injury risk.
Conclusion
For a confirmed 21-inch 500E, the model-matched recoil starter is the most direct fix. If only the rope has failed, a rope and grip kit may be enough. Owners with several E-series mowers may prefer a multi-model listing, and anyone with broader wear may want a full assembly. Verify the model number and check engine basics before ordering.
Sources
- Consumer safety guidance on power equipment and lawn mower use (cpsc.gov)
- Workplace and equipment safety standards relevant to powered outdoor tools (osha.gov)
- Information on small engine efficiency and maintenance practices (energy.gov)
Related reading
- Poulan Pro 500E Lawn Mower Won't Start: 7 Causes and Fixes
- Murray Lawn Mower Won't Start: 8 Causes and Step-by-Step Fixes
- Murray EX550 Lawn Mower Won't Start: 8 Causes and Fixes (2026)
- Murray E450 Lawn Mower Won't Start: 6 Best Parts Compared (2026)
- Brand New Murray Lawn Mower Won't Start? 6 Best Parts & Fixes (2026)
- Yardworks Battery Lawn Mower Won't Start: 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.
