When your trusty lawn mower sputters to a halt, the culprit is often the heart of the machine—the motor. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast looking to perform a replacement or a homeowner in the market for a new cordless model, selecting the right engine is crucial for a well-manicured lawn. A powerful, reliable motor ensures a clean cut and years of dependable service, turning a tedious chore into a quick and satisfying task.
From robust gas engines for heavy-duty work to quiet, efficient electric motors for smaller yards, the options can be overwhelming. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting the best motors and complete mowers available. We’ve compiled a list of top-tier options to help you find the perfect power source for your lawn care needs, ensuring you can make an informed decision for a greener, healthier lawn.
Our Top Motor and Mower Picks
- Aceup Energy Gas Engine Vertical Shaft, 4.4HP 173cc
- Sun Joe Cordless Lawn Mower, 28V Brushless Motor, 14″ Electric
- Litheli Electric Lawn Mower Cordless,Grass Cutter with Motor
- 136-7880 Starter Motor for 2P77F Engines Compatible with Toro
- Sun Joe MJ401E-27 MJ401E Lawn Mower Motor
- Briggs & Stratton 126T02-0117-F1 500cc 17.5 Gross HP Engine
- Predator Engines 69730 420cc 13 HP Gas Engine
- Briggs & Stratton 33S877-0003-G1 190cc 10.5 HP Engine
Aceup Energy Gas Engine Vertical Shaft, 4.4HP 173cc
This 4-stroke, 173cc gas engine from Aceup Energy is a reliable and EPA-compliant power source for various lawn mower applications. Its Overhead Valve (OHV) design promotes better fuel efficiency and longer engine life compared to older side-valve models. With a maximum output of 4.4 HP at 3600 RPM and a generous 0.9-gallon fuel tank, it provides substantial power and runtime for medium-duty mowing tasks.
Starting is made simple with the recoil starter and primer bulb, which helps draw fuel into the carburetor for a quicker ignition. The vertical shaft features a 7/8-inch diameter and a 3/16-inch keyway, making it compatible with a wide range of standard lawn mower pulleys and blades. This motor is a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable replacement engine to get their equipment back in working order.
Sun Joe Cordless Lawn Mower, 28V Brushless Motor, 14″ Electric
For those seeking a cord-free and gas-free mowing experience, the Sun Joe MJ401C-XR offers a complete solution powered by a 28V lithium-ion battery. The brushless motor is a key feature, known for its efficiency, durability, and longer runtime compared to brushed motors. This mower is ideal for small to medium-sized lawns, covering up to a quarter-acre on a single charge.
The 14-inch steel deck provides a crisp, clean cut, and the included 10.6-gallon grass catcher makes cleanup straightforward. You have full control over your lawn’s appearance with the 3-position manual height adjustment. This model eliminates the hassles of gas, oil, and extension cords, providing a quiet, low-maintenance mowing experience.
Litheli Electric Lawn Mower Cordless,Grass Cutter with Motor
The Litheli cordless lawn mower is designed for efficiency and user convenience, capable of handling up to 1,300 square feet of lawn. Its high-performance motor spins the 13-inch blade at 3400 RPM, ensuring a powerful cut through grass with ease. The motor is engineered for low noise and minimal maintenance, offering a smooth and pleasant mowing operation.
This mower provides excellent customization with five different cutting height settings, ranging from 1 inch to 2.5 inches. The 8-gallon collection bag has a substantial capacity, reducing the frequency of stops to empty clippings. It’s a well-rounded electric option for homeowners who value precision and a tidy finish.
136-7880 Starter Motor for 2P77F Engines Compatible with Toro
This replacement starter motor is the solution for Toro and Exmark mowers with 2P77F engines that are difficult to start or produce excessive noise during ignition. It is designed as a direct replacement for several OEM part numbers, including 133-1564 and 127-9209, ensuring a perfect fit and seamless installation.
Constructed from high-quality metal components, this starter is built for longevity and reliable performance. It is engineered to start the engine quickly and smoothly while minimizing power consumption. If your commercial or residential zero-turn mower is showing signs of a failing starter, this part can restore a quick and quiet start.
Sun Joe MJ401E-27 MJ401E Lawn Mower Motor
This is a genuine replacement motor specifically designed for the Sun Joe Mow Joe MJ401E electric lawn mower. If the original motor in your mower has failed, this 12-amp motor is the exact part needed to restore its cutting power. It guarantees compatibility and performance that matches the original equipment.
Installing this motor can extend the life of your Sun Joe mower, saving you the cost of purchasing a completely new machine. It’s a straightforward repair for those who are comfortable with DIY maintenance. Having the correct replacement part on hand makes the repair process efficient and reliable.
Briggs & Stratton 126T02-0117-F1 500cc 17.5 Gross HP Engine
For the most demanding lawn care tasks, the Briggs & Stratton 126T02-0117-F1 engine delivers exceptional power. With a displacement of 500cc and a gross horsepower rating of 17.5, this engine is suited for large residential zero-turn mowers and commercial-grade equipment. It is built to handle extended runtimes and tough conditions.
As a product from a leading name in small engines, you can expect a design focused on durability and performance. This engine is an ideal candidate for repowering a heavy-duty lawn tractor or replacing the engine in a commercial mower that requires robust and reliable power.
Predator Engines 69730 420cc 13 HP Gas Engine
The Predator 69730 is a powerful and cost-effective 420cc gas engine that produces 13 horsepower. Its horizontal shaft design makes it versatile for a range of applications beyond lawn mowers, including log splitters and pressure washers. This engine is known for providing substantial power for its class.
It features a durable construction and is designed for easy starting and reliable operation. If you need a strong horizontal shaft engine for a custom project or to replace a worn-out motor on a variety of equipment, the Predator 69730 is a compelling option that balances performance with value.
Briggs & Stratton 33S877-0003-G1 190cc 10.5 HP Engine
This Briggs & Stratton engine offers a solid balance of power and size with its 190cc displacement and 10.5 horsepower rating. It is a vertical shaft engine, making it perfectly suited for a wide array of walk-behind mowers and riding mowers. Its reliable performance is backed by the Briggs & Stratton reputation.
The engine is built for durability and consistent operation, making it a go-to choice for a straightforward engine replacement. Whether you’re a homeowner or a small landscaping business, this engine provides the dependable power needed to tackle weekly mowing without complication.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Motor for Your Lawn Mower
Choosing a motor for your lawn mower isn’t just about raw power; it’s about finding the right partner for your yard. I’ve spent a lot of time comparing different models, and the best choice always depends on your specific situation. Let’s break down the key things I look for when helping someone pick from the 8 best motors for lawn mowers to buy this year.
First, you need to decide between gas and electric. Gas motors are the traditional workhorses. They offer a lot of power and total freedom from cords, which is great for large or complex properties. The trade-off is they require more maintenance. You have to deal with oil changes, spark plugs, air filters, and of course, buying and storing gasoline. They’re also louder and produce emissions.
Electric motors come in two flavors: corded and cordless battery-powered. Corded electric mowers are incredibly simple and low-maintenance. You just plug them in and go. They’re quiet, lightweight, and emit no fumes. The obvious limitation is the cord itself. You need to be mindful of it at all times, and your range is limited by the length of your extension cord. These are best for smaller, flat yards.
Battery-powered mowers have exploded in popularity, and for good reason. They offer the convenience of gas without the fumes and most of the maintenance. They’re quiet and easy to start. The critical factor here is the battery ecosystem. I always recommend looking at the voltage (like 40V or 80V) and the Amp-hour (Ah) rating. Higher numbers generally mean more power and longer runtimes. If you already own other tools from a brand like DeWalt or Ryobi, sticking with that same battery platform can be a huge cost saver.
Next, consider power and torque. For gas mowers, this is measured in cubic centimeters (cc). A higher cc engine typically has more power to tackle thick, wet grass or hills without bogging down. For electric mowers, look at volts (V) as a general power indicator. Torque is what you feel when the mower powers through a dense patch of grass without slowing down. A mower with good torque is less likely to stall.
Finally, think about your yard’s characteristics. A small, flat city lawn is a very different job than a hilly, multi-acre property. Your yard’s size, terrain, and the type of grass you have are the final deciding factors. Matching the motor to the job will ensure you get a clean cut without frustration.
FAQ
What is the difference between torque and horsepower in a mower motor?
This is a classic question. Horsepower is a measure of the engine’s overall power output over time. Think of it as the engine’s top speed capability. Torque, on the other hand, is the immediate twisting force that gets the blade spinning and powers through tough grass. For lawn mowers, torque is often more important because it’s what prevents the engine from stalling when you hit a thick patch. A high-torque motor will maintain its blade speed under load, giving you a cleaner cut.
How long do batteries typically last on a cordless electric mower?
Battery runtime varies a lot based on the battery’s capacity (measured in Amp-hours or Ah) and your lawn’s conditions. On a single charge, you can expect anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of actual mowing time. Mowing wet grass, thick thatch, or hills will drain the battery faster. Many brands offer larger, optional batteries for extended runtime. It’s also worth noting that lithium-ion batteries have a lifespan of several years before they start to hold less charge.
Is a higher CC engine always better for a gas mower?
Not necessarily. While a higher cc (cubic centimeter) engine generally produces more power, it also means more weight, more fuel consumption, and often a higher price. For a standard suburban lawn, an engine in the 140cc to 190cc range is usually more than sufficient. You only really need a high-cc engine (over 200cc) if you have a very large property, consistently wet or thick grass, or steep hills. Overpowering a small lawn is just a waste of money and fuel.
What kind of maintenance does a gas mower engine require?
Gas engines require regular upkeep to run well and last a long time. The essentials include changing the oil once a season or after every 50 hours of use, replacing the air filter a couple of times a season, and changing the spark plug annually. You also need to use fresh fuel and consider adding a fuel stabilizer if you’re storing the mower for more than a month. Neglecting this maintenance is the most common reason gas mowers fail to start or perform poorly.
Can I replace the motor on my old lawn mower myself?
It is technically possible, but I rarely recommend it for the average person. Swapping a mower engine involves disconnecting the blade drive system, throttle linkages, and electrical components, then reinstalling the new motor perfectly. It can be a complex mechanical job. Unless you’re very handy and the mower deck is in exceptional condition, you are often better off investing in a new mower. The cost and effort of a new engine can approach the price of a new machine, especially when looking at the 8 best motors for lawn mowers to buy this year as part of a complete product.