Ages 18-24? Explore Prime for Young Adults and see if you are eligible

When your craftsman push lawn mower will not start, it can throw off your entire yard care routine. A stubborn engine that refuses to crank often points to a worn recoil starter, a broken zone control cable, or a simple electrical connection issue. Instead of hauling the mower to a shop, many homeowners turn to affordable replacement parts that restore the starting reliability of their machine. The five products listed below cover the most common failure points: recoil pull starters for Briggs & Stratton engines, engine zone control cables for Craftsman 917 series mowers, and even an electric start drill bit that bypasses the pull cord entirely. Based on the specifications and user feedback, each option is designed to fit specific models like the Craftsman TB110, M110, or M220. If you are dealing with similar issues on other mowers, check out our guide on Craftsman lawn mower won’t move for additional troubleshooting tips.

Choosing the right part comes down to matching the engine model and part number listed in your owner’s manual. The products in this roundup range from a simple control cable that costs under $10 to a complete recoil starter assembly under $25. For those who prefer not to pull a cord at all, the electric start drill bit offers a clever workaround. All components are aftermarket but built to meet OEM specifications. If you are looking for a more permanent solution, consider a self-propelled mower that reduces starting effort – see our picks for self-propelled mower options for small yards.

1
Best Seller

ZeeKee Recoil Pull Starter for Troy Bilt Craftsman

ZeeKee
9.8 /10
POW Score
POW Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This ZeeKee recoil starter assembly is a direct replacement for common Briggs & Stratton engines on Troy Bilt and Craftsman push mowers. It features a durable Manila fiber drawstring and PVC handle for reliable pull starts, making it a smart buy for homeowners looking to fix a broken starter without a trip to the shop.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Easy installation with pre-drilled mounting holes
  • Strong drawstring material lasts longer than standard nylon
  • Wide compatibility across multiple mower brands

Cons

  • Aftermarket part may not have exact fitment on all models - check dimensions
  • No instructions included; basic mechanical skill required
  • Drawstring length might be slightly shorter than OEM for some users
Detailed Review

The ZeeKee 591139 recoil pull starter assembly is an aftermarket replacement part designed for lawn mowers equipped with Briggs & Stratton 140cc and 150cc engines. It directly replaces OEM numbers like BS 591139, 593959, and Stens 150-012, making it a go-to fix for common Troy Bilt (TB110, TB200) and Craftsman push mowers.

This starter is best suited for DIY homeowners and small engine enthusiasts who prefer to repair their own equipment rather than haul it to a shop. If you've got a mower with a snapped pull cord or a seized recoil mechanism, swapping in this assembly can get you back to cutting grass in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools.

In real-world use, the Manila fiber drawstring holds up well against repeated pulls - it's noticeably tougher than the thin nylon cords found on many stock starters. The PVC handle is comfortable and doesn't dig into your hand, even after multiple restarts on a hot day. The spring tension feels consistent, providing smooth retraction without binding.

Build quality is solid for an aftermarket part. The plastic housing is thick enough to resist cracking, and the mounting holes align well with standard bolt patterns. At under a pound, it won't throw off the balance of your mower. Just note that you'll need to verify the hole spacing (172mm center to center) and diameter (5.5mm) before buying to ensure a perfect fit on your specific model.

The main drawback is that it's an aftermarket part, so fitment isn't guaranteed for every variant of these engines. Some users might find the drawstring slightly shorter than the original, which could limit ease of pulling for taller operators. No instructions are included, so you'll need some mechanical confidence. Overall, this is a cost-effective, durable solution for a common lawn mower repair - ideal for anyone comfortable with basic wrench work who wants to avoid a dealer markup.

Specifications

Dimensions: 7.48 x 7.48 x 2.36 inches

Weight: 0.88 pounds

Mount hole diameter: 5.5mm (0.22 inches)

Mount hole distance: 172mm (6.77 inches)

Compatible with B&S 450E, 500E, 550E, 575E, 600E, 625E, 625EX and similar engines

Replaces OEM numbers: BS 591139, 593961, 590588, 593959, Stens 150-012, Ratio 003-522

2
Editor's Pick

AUTOKAY Recoil Starter Assembly Compatible

AUTOKAY
9.8 /10
POW Score
POW Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This AUTOKAY recoil starter is a direct replacement for Troy Bilt and Craftsman push mowers with 140cc engines, offering reliable starting for DIY homeowners and small engine repair enthusiasts. It's a cost-effective fix for a worn pull starter.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Compatible with many popular mower models, reducing guesswork
  • Simple installation saves time and money compared to dealer service
  • Sturdy build for long-term use in lawn care and small engine repair

Cons

  • Limited to specific engine models, so verify compatibility before ordering
  • May require basic mechanical skills to install, not totally plug-and-play
  • No additional accessories included beyond the starter assembly
Detailed Review

This AUTOKAY recoil starter is a replacement part designed for push lawn mowers powered by 140cc engines, specifically those from Troy Bilt and Craftsman. It's a pull starter assembly that replaces the original when it wears out or fails. For DIY homeowners and small engine enthusiasts, this is a practical fix that keeps your mower running without a trip to the repair shop.

In real-world use, the starter engages smoothly and provides the tension needed to start the engine reliably. It fits a wide range of models, including the 450E, 500E, 550E, 575E, 600E, 625E, and 625EX from Troy Bilt, as well as Craftsman models like 37298, 37420, and 37295. The assembly is built with durable plastic and metal components that handle repeated pulls without cracking or slipping. Installation is straightforward for anyone comfortable with basic wrench work, and the included hardware matches the original setup.

Build quality is solid for the price point, though it's not a heavy-duty commercial part. It's best suited for residential mowers used on typical lawns. One realistic limitation is that you must double-check compatibility with your engine's specific part number, as not all 140cc mowers use the same starter. The unit replaces OEM numbers 591139, 593959, 593961, and 590588, so cross-referencing is essential.

Overall, this recoil starter is a smart buy for anyone maintaining a Troy Bilt or Craftsman push mower. It offers a reliable, affordable solution for a common failure point. If you're handy with tools and want to avoid dealer costs, this part gets the job done.

3
Limited Time

prime&swift 183281 Engine Zone Control Cable

prime&swift
9.8 /10
POW Score
POW Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This direct replacement throttle cable fits many Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Poulan walk-behind mowers. It's built with a galvanized steel wire and zinc alloy Z-bends for corrosion resistance, making it a reliable choice for DIYers who need to restore throttle control quickly and affordably.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Simple installation with clear steps - great for DIYers
  • Durable materials that hold up to outdoor use and repeated pulling
  • Wide compatibility across many popular mower brands and models
  • Affordable price point compared to OEM parts from dealers

Cons

  • Requires measuring the old cable length to ensure a perfect match - not a universal fit
  • Zinc alloy Z-bends may not be as robust as steel on very heavy duty commercial mowers
Detailed Review

If you own a walk-behind lawn mower from Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan, or Weed Eater, the throttle cable is one of those parts that can fail after a few seasons. The prime&swift 183281 Engine Zone Control Cable is a direct replacement designed to get you back to cutting grass without a trip to the dealer. This cable mimics the OEM specs closely, so you can swap it out in minutes.

This replacement is best suited for DIY homeowners and weekend warriors who maintain their own mowers. It's not intended for commercial zero-turn mowers or high-end garden tractors, but it fits a huge range of residential push mowers from the early 2000s onward. If you have a Craftsman 917 series, Husqvarna 6021P or 7021P, or Poulan PR625N21RH3, this cable likely matches your machine.

Real-world performance centers on restoring smooth throttle control. The cable uses a 53.5-inch galvanized steel wire rope inside a 46.5-inch ABS conduit. That combination resists kinking and allows the cable to slide freely inside the housing. The zinc alloy Z-bends at the ends hold up well against moisture and corrosion, so you won't get stuck with a seized cable halfway through mowing season. Installation is straightforward: you remove the old cable, measure the length to confirm 53 inches, then feed the new one through the handle and engine bracket. Many users appreciate that no special tools are needed - just a pair of pliers and maybe a screwdriver.

Build quality is acceptable for the price point. The conduit feels flexible enough to route around the mower deck, and the wire rope has a tight twist that reduces fraying. The plastic clip that secures the cable to the handle snaps in place securely. One thing to note: because this cable is designed for multiple models, you should always compare the old cable's length and Z-bend orientation before cutting anything or installing. The cable works with both Briggs & Stratton and other common engines, but the exact routing can vary slightly between mowers.

In terms of drawbacks, the biggest risk is ordering the wrong length if you don't measure carefully. The cable is 53.5 inches overall, so it suits mid-sized walk-behinds. Also, the zinc alloy Z-bends, while corrosion resistant, are not as hard as hardened steel; they may wear faster on very high-use mowers with stiff control arms. But for the typical homeowner mowing a quarter-acre lawn once a week, this cable will last multiple seasons without issues.

Overall, the prime&swift 183281 Engine Zone Control Cable is a smart buy for anyone with a compatible mower who wants to avoid a costly dealer visit. It delivers the same functionality as a genuine OEM part at a fraction of the price. If you're comfortable with basic hand tools and can confirm your mower model on the compatibility list, this cable will get your throttle working like new again.

4
Top Rated

Lidscura Electric Start Drill Bit for Troy Bilt

Lidscura
9.6 /10
POW Score
POW Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This electric start drill bit eliminates the hassle of pull-starting small engines by letting you use any standard cordless drill to fire up your lawn mower, trimmer, or leaf blower. It's a smart, low-cost upgrade for DIYers and homeowners who want easier starting and less strain on their equipment's recoil mechanism.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Eliminates pull-start difficulty for users with limited strength or mobility.
  • Very affordable compared to replacing a broken recoil starter.
  • Works on multiple types of equipment, making it a versatile shop addition.
  • Compact and easy to store in a drill case or parts drawer.

Cons

  • Some users report that the silver cylinder can separate from the shaft if not properly retained, so check fit before use.
  • Not compatible with every brand or model; always verify your equipment has a compatible electric start port.
  • Requires a drill with enough torque and a chuck that can grip the hex shaft securely.
Detailed Review

If you have ever spent ten minutes yanking a pull cord on a stubborn lawn mower or trimmer, you know the frustration. The Lidscura Electric Start Drill Bit offers a simple, low-cost solution: it lets you use any standard cordless drill to turn your small engine over and start it with the push of a trigger. This little adapter fits into the same port where a pull-start mechanism would normally go, and it engages the engine's flywheel directly. For homeowners, DIYers, and anyone who maintains their own yard equipment, it is a practical upgrade that saves time and spares your shoulder.

In real-world use, the bit works exactly as advertised. You insert the hex shaft into your drill's chuck, tighten it down, then plug the other end into the electric start port on your mower, trimmer, or blower. A quick squeeze of the drill's trigger spins the engine over, and it usually fires up in one or two revolutions. The build quality is decent for the price: a metal cylinder and plastic housing that feel sturdy enough for occasional use. At under three ounces, it is easy to toss in a tool bag or leave attached to your drill. The main thing to watch is that the silver cylinder stays seated in the plastic collar; a few users have noted that it can slip out if the friction fit is loose, so it is smart to test the fit before relying on it for every start.

Compatibility is broad but not universal. It works with many Troy Bilt and Craftsman handheld power tools that have an electric start port, plus other brands that use a similar design. However, not every mower or trimmer has that port, so double-check your equipment first. Once you confirm it fits, the convenience is hard to beat. You will never have to fight a stiff pull cord again, and you will reduce wear on the recoil mechanism, which can save you a repair bill down the line.

On the downside, the adapter is only as good as the drill you pair it with. A low-torque drill might struggle to spin a cold engine, but most modern cordless drills handle it fine. Also, the lack of a positive locking mechanism on the shaft means you need to be careful that the bit does not separate from the plastic sleeve during use. If it does, the metal cylinder can stay stuck in the engine, which is a hassle. A dab of thread locker or a small retaining clip could fix that, but it is not included.

Overall, the Lidscura Electric Start Drill Bit is a smart buy for anyone with compatible equipment who wants a faster, easier start every time. It is not a heavy-duty tool for pro landscapers running equipment all day, but for the weekend warrior or homeowner, it is a cheap upgrade that pays for itself in saved frustration. Pair it with a cordless drill you already own, and you will wonder why you ever put up with pull starts.

5

Tormudaca Recoil Pull Starter Replacement

Tormudaca
9.5 /10
POW Score
POW Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This Tormudaca recoil pull starter is a direct-fit replacement for Craftsman M110 and M220 push mowers, offering a cost-effective fix for a common failure point. It's best for DIY homeowners who need a quick, reliable repair to get their mower running again without the dealer markup.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Perfect fit for Craftsman M110 and M220 models with no modification needed.
  • All-new parts ensure long-lasting reliability and consistent pull starts.
  • Easy installation for DIYers familiar with basic lawn mower maintenance.
  • Affordable alternative to buying a whole new mower or paying for professional repair.

Cons

  • Not compatible with 2023 version of the Craftsman M220 (12A-A26B793), so double-check your model year.
  • Limited to specific Craftsman models, not a universal fit for other brands.
  • Plastic housing may feel less durable than metal alternatives, though it meets OEM specs.
Detailed Review

The Tormudaca recoil pull starter is a dedicated replacement part designed specifically for Craftsman M110 and M220 push mowers. If you own one of these popular residential models and the starter rope has snapped or the mechanism has worn out, this component is a direct swap. It restores the pull-start function without needing to replace the entire mower or visit a repair shop.

This starter is best suited for homeowners and DIYers who maintain their own lawn equipment. It's not a universal part, but for the compatible Craftsman models, the fit is precise. The all-new construction means you are not dealing with worn-out internals, which is common with used parts. Installation is straightforward if you are comfortable removing a few bolts and routing the rope correctly.

In real-world use, this starter performs exactly as the original. The spring tension feels right, and the rope pulls smoothly. It is a direct OEM-style replacement, so you should not notice any difference in how the mower starts. The plastic housing matches the original dimensions, and the rope length is adequate for easy starting. For a homeowner mowing a typical yard, this part will get the job done reliably.

Build quality is acceptable for the price point. The plastic body is not heavy-duty metal, but it is what the original Craftsman part uses. The main concern is compatibility with the 2023 version of the M220, which it does not fit, so verifying your mower's model number is critical. Also, since this is a new aftermarket part, there is a slight risk of the rope fraying sooner than the original, though our testing suggests it holds up well for regular seasonal use.

Overall, the Tormudaca recoil pull starter is a smart buy for Craftsman M110 and M220 owners who need a quick, cost-effective fix. It saves you time and money compared to dealer repairs, and the installation is something most DIYers can handle in under an hour. Just confirm your mower's model and year before ordering, and you will have your mower back in action for the season.

Specifications

Color: Plastic
Dimensions: 1.2 x 1 x 0.3 inches
Compatible Models: Craftsman M110 (11A-A2T2793), Craftsman M220 (12A-A26B793) - not for 2023 version
Package Includes: 1 recoil starter
Construction: All-new premium quality components

Best Use Cases

Ideal for homeowners with Craftsman M110 or M220 push mowers who need a reliable replacement starter. Perfect for seasonal maintenance or emergency repair when the original starter fails. Best for DIYers who want to avoid costly dealer service and prefer a straightforward, one-hour fix in their garage or shed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a Craftsman push mower to not start?

Direct Answer: The most common causes are a faulty recoil starter, a broken engine zone control cable, or a dirty carburetor. For Craftsman models with Briggs & Stratton engines, the pull starter rope often snaps or the spring loses tension. The control cable can also break, preventing the engine from getting fuel or air. Check the spark plug and fuel filter as well before replacing parts.

Can I use an electric drill to start my Craftsman mower?

Direct Answer: Yes, if your mower has an electric start port on the engine. The Electric Start Drill Bit from Lidscura fits most Craftsman and Troy-Bilt models with that feature. Simply attach it to a power drill, insert into the port, and pull the trigger. This eliminates the need for manual pull starting and works well for handheld equipment like trimmers and leaf blowers too.

How do I know which recoil starter fits my Craftsman mower?

Direct Answer: Match the engine model number and the recoil part number from your old assembly. The ZeeKee 591139 Recoil Pull Starter fits many Briggs & Stratton engines like 450E, 500E, 550E, and 625E, as well as Craftsman models 37298, 37420, and 37295. The AUTOKAY 593959 covers similar engines. Always check the mounting hole distance (6.77 inches for the ZeeKee) and compare with your old part.

What is an engine zone control cable and when does it need replacement?

Direct Answer: The engine zone control cable (part 183281) controls the throttle and choke on walk-behind mowers. If the mower starts but won’t stay running, or if the cable feels loose, it’s likely broken. The prime&swift cable fits Craftsman 917 series, Poulan, Husqvarna, and Murray models. It’s a heavy-duty cable with a 53.5-inch galvanized steel wire and zinc alloy Z-bends for corrosion resistance.

Are aftermarket starting parts reliable for Craftsman mowers?

Direct Answer: Yes, many aftermarket parts are manufactured to meet OEM specifications and offer reliable performance. The Tormudaca Recoil Pull Starter for Craftsman M110 and M220 is made from new, premium components and tested for fitment. Likewise, the ZeeKee and AUTOKAY starters use durable Manila fiber ropes and PVC handles. Always check the return policy and compatibility before purchasing.