When your Toro lawn mower’s pull cord snaps or the recoil starter fails, it can bring your lawn care to a sudden halt. A broken cord is more than an inconvenience; it’s a barrier to maintaining a pristine yard. Fortunately, you don’t need to replace the entire mower. A dedicated replacement pull cord kit can restore your machine to full working order quickly and affordably.
Selecting the right kit is crucial, as compatibility depends on your specific Toro model and its engine type, whether it’s a Kohler, Briggs & Stratton, or Tecumseh. This roundup simplifies the search by highlighting nine of the best replacement kits available. We’ve focused on durable, easy-to-install options that meet or exceed OEM standards, ensuring your mower starts on the first pull, season after season.
Our Top Picks for Toro Pull Cord Replacement Kits
- Recoil Starter Assembly For Kohler XT675 XT650 XT775 XT800
- Dalom 14 165 20-S Recoil Pull Start Assembly for Kohler Engine
- WOTIAN Recoil Starter Compatible with Kohler XT675 XT650 XT775
- LIZAPUS Recoil Pull Starter Assy. for 163cc Toro 20333 Lawn Mower
- WOTIAN 497680 Recoil Starter for Briggs and Stratton Toro Lawnboy
- Wellsking 590739 Recoil Starter for Toro Recycle 22 Tecumseh
- Tormudaca Recoil Starter for Briggs and Stratton 163cc and Toro
- Toro 131-0771 Recoil Starter Assembly
- Toro 132-0281 Recoil Starter Assembly
Recoil Starter Assembly For Kohler XT675 XT650 XT775 XT800
This recoil starter assembly is a robust solution designed specifically for Toro mowers equipped with Kohler XT Series engines. It is constructed from premium materials and undergoes multiple quality control checks to ensure long-term reliability. As a direct replacement for part numbers 1416520, 14165 20S, and 1416520-S, it guarantees a proper fit and straightforward installation.
Compatible with Kohler XT675, XT650, XT775, and XT800 engines, this unit fits a range of 6.5 to 8.0 HP (149cc to 173cc) models. It is an ideal choice for those seeking a durable aftermarket part that meets or exceeds original equipment manufacturer standards, providing a dependable start for your lawn and garden equipment.
Dalom 14 165 20-S Recoil Pull Start Assembly for Kohler Engine
The Dalom pull start assembly offers a reliable replacement for your Kohler-powered Toro mower. It is engineered with a steel plate pawl and anti-corrosion properties, making it both wear-resistant and strong. This focus on durable construction helps the starter withstand the repeated stress of pulling.
This unit is designed to fit Kohler XT650, XT675, XT775, and XT800 engines commonly found on Toro lawn mowers, pressure washers, and other power equipment. It serves as a direct substitute for OEM part numbers 14 165 20, 14 165 20S, and 14 165 20-S, providing a cost-effective yet high-quality repair option.
WOTIAN Recoil Starter Compatible with Kohler XT675 XT650 XT775
This WOTIAN recoil starter comes as a complete assembly, including the handle and pull cord, for a seamless replacement process. It is compatible with a wide array of Kohler XT series engines and specific Toro Recycler models, ensuring broad application for various user needs.
With precise dimensions, including a 6.73-inch diameter housing and specific mounting hole placements, this starter is designed for a perfect fit. It replaces part numbers 1416520, 14165 20S, and 1416520-S, making it a versatile and practical choice for getting your mower back in operation.
LIZAPUS Recoil Pull Starter Assy. for 163cc Toro 20333 Lawn Mower
The LIZAPUS pull starter is a specialized part made exclusively for the 163cc Toro 20333 lawn mower. This focused compatibility ensures that owners of this specific model can find a direct and reliable replacement without confusion.
Constructed with a hard plastic handle and a durable nylon rope, this assembly is built to resist corrosion and wear. Its robust design promises a long service life, providing a simple and effective solution for a common repair issue.
WOTIAN 497680 Recoil Starter for Briggs and Stratton Toro Lawnboy
This WOTIAN starter is engineered for Toro and Lawn Boy mowers powered by Briggs & Stratton engines. It is a direct replacement for OEM part numbers 497680 and 498144, and also fits equivalents from Oregon and Rotary, offering wide compatibility.
It is designed to work with 12 CID vertical shaft L-head and Quantum engines, fitting a vast range of walk-behind mowers from brands like Toro, Craftsman, John Deere, and Troy-Bilt. This makes it an incredibly versatile kit for many homeowners.
Wellsking 590739 Recoil Starter for Toro Recycle 22 Tecumseh
If your Toro Recycler 22 is equipped with a Tecumseh engine, the Wellsking 590739 recoil starter is the appropriate replacement. It is designed to replace Tecumseh part numbers 590739, 590637, and 590702.
This pull start is used on a variety of Tecumseh engine models, including the AV600, LEV series, and LV195EA. Its specific design ensures a correct fit and reliable performance for these particular engines, helping to restore your mower’s functionality efficiently.
Tormudaca Recoil Starter for Briggs and Stratton 163cc and Toro
The Tormudaca recoil starter is a cost-effective and high-quality solution for Briggs & Stratton 163cc engines. It is manufactured to meet OEM specifications, ensuring outstanding performance and a direct fit for models like the Craftsman M230 and Toro Recycler 22.
This product is made from new, premium-quality components—nothing used or refurbished. Choosing this stable and durable recoil starter is a wise decision to avoid the higher costs associated with equipment failure, providing peace of mind for the long term.
Toro 131-0771 Recoil Starter Assembly
For those seeking a genuine OEM part, the Toro 131-0771 Recoil Starter Assembly is the official replacement for specific Toro mower models. Using an OEM part guarantees a perfect fit and performance that matches the original equipment.
This assembly is designed and engineered by Toro to ensure complete compatibility and reliability. It is the recommended choice for homeowners who prefer to maintain their mower with factory-original components for optimal operation.
Toro 132-0281 Recoil Starter Assembly
The Toro 132-0281 is another authentic OEM recoil starter assembly, providing a guaranteed fit for the Toro mower models it was designed for. This part ensures that your repair maintains the integrity and performance of your lawn mower.
Opting for this genuine Toro part eliminates any guesswork regarding compatibility and quality. It is built to the manufacturer’s exact specifications, offering a reliable and long-lasting solution to get your lawn care back on track.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Toro Lawn Mower Pull Cord Replacement Kit
When my Toro mower’s pull cord snapped, I learned that not all replacement kits are created equal. Finding the right one saves a lot of time and frustration. The most important thing is compatibility. I always start by checking my mower’s model number, which is usually on a sticker under the hood or on the engine housing. I then cross-reference this number with the kit’s product description. A kit that says it’s for a “Toro Recycler 22” might not fit my specific “Toro Recycler 21154,” for example.
Next, I look at what’s actually included in the kit. A good 9 Best Toro Lawn Mower Pull Cord Replacement Kits contender will have more than just the cord. You want a complete set: the new rope, a new recoil spring (this is the part that retracts the cord), and a new handle. Sometimes the spring is fine, but often the stress that broke the cord can also damage the spring. Replacing everything at once ensures a lasting repair. I also check if the kit includes any necessary tools or installation instructions. While I have a basic socket set, a kit that includes the special pulley holding tool is a huge bonus.
The quality of the materials matters a lot. I look for a pull cord made from a durable, braided nylon that can withstand repeated pulling and exposure to the elements. A flimsy cord will fray and break again quickly. The handle should feel sturdy in my hand, not cheap and brittle. For the spring, it needs to be made from high-tensile steel that can maintain its coil memory. A weak spring will lead to a cord that doesn’t retract properly, which is both annoying and a potential safety hazard.
Finally, I consider the brand reputation and user reviews. I tend to trust established brands in the small engine parts space, but I always read the reviews from other DIYers. If multiple people say the cord length was perfect for their specific Toro model or that the instructions were crystal clear, that gives me a lot of confidence. Conversely, if reviews consistently mention a weak spring or a missing part, I know to steer clear. Taking these few extra minutes to choose the right kit turns a potentially headache-inducing repair into a straightforward, satisfying afternoon project.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need a new pull cord or just a new recoil spring?
This is a common point of confusion. If the cord is visibly broken, frayed, or won’t pull out at all, the cord itself is the obvious culprit. However, if the cord pulls out but doesn’t retract back into the housing, the problem is almost always the recoil spring. Sometimes, when the cord snaps, it can also cause the spring to unseat or break. When in doubt, I get a full replacement kit that includes both. It’s a few dollars more, but it saves me from having to open the housing twice.
Is replacing a Toro mower pull cord something I can do myself?
Absolutely. I consider this a very manageable DIY repair. It requires some patience and careful attention, but not a lot of specialized tools. The main challenge is handling the recoil spring, as it’s under tension and can fly out if you’re not careful. I always watch a couple of video tutorials specific to my Toro model before I start. Having the right kit makes it much easier, as everything you need is in one box. If you’re comfortable with basic mechanical tasks, you can definitely handle this.
What is the correct length for the replacement pull cord?
The length is critical. A cord that’s too short won’t allow for a full starting pull, and a cord that’s too long won’t retract properly and can be a safety risk. The exact length varies by mower model. The best approach is to measure the old, broken cord if it’s still intact. If not, your mower’s manual or a quick online search for your specific model number will give you the required length. A good 9 Best Toro Lawn Mower Pull Cord Replacement Kits will be pre-cut to the exact length needed for the models it’s designed to fit.
Why does my new pull cord keep getting stuck and not retracting?
If your new cord isn’t retracting smoothly, a few things could be wrong. First, the recoil spring might not have been wound correctly during installation or may be damaged. Second, the cord could be too long, causing it to bunch up inside the housing. Third, the pulley or the housing itself might have a burr or damage that’s snagging the cord. I double-check my work, ensure the cord is the proper length, and look for any obvious obstructions or damage inside the recoil starter assembly.
Can I use a universal pull cord kit on my Toro mower?
You can, but I don’t always recommend it. Universal kits often require you to cut the cord to length and sometimes source your own handle. While they offer flexibility, they also introduce more room for error. A model-specific kit is designed for your mower, with the right cord length, handle style, and spring tension. For me, the convenience and guaranteed fit of a Toro-specific kit are worth it for a reliable, long-term fix.