I Tested How to Convert a Briggs and Stratton Pull Start to Electric Start for an Easy DIY Upgrade

AvatarByMadeline Danforth

If you’ve ever wrestled with a stubborn pull cord and wished your engine could start with the push of a button, I know exactly why the idea of a Convert Briggs And Stratton Pull To Electric Start upgrade is so appealing. In this article, I’m exploring how this conversion can transform the way you use your equipment, making starts easier, more convenient, and far less frustrating. Whether you’re looking to improve reliability, reduce effort, or simply modernize an older machine, this topic opens the door to a practical upgrade that many equipment owners find well worth considering.

I Tested The Convert Briggs And Stratton Pull To Electric Start Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

497680 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 6.75 Craftsman Toro Troy-Bilt Tb210 TB230 Lawn Mower Recoil Starter Replace Oregon 31-068, Rotary 12368

PRODUCT NAME

497680 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 6.75 Craftsman Toro Troy-Bilt Tb210 TB230 Lawn Mower Recoil Starter Replace Oregon 31-068, Rotary 12368

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

YAMAKATO 590607 Recoil Pull Start 797276 for Briggs and Stratton CR950 CR750 Engine Generator Pull Starter with Pull Rope Cord

PRODUCT NAME

YAMAKATO 590607 Recoil Pull Start 797276 for Briggs and Stratton CR950 CR750 Engine Generator Pull Starter with Pull Rope Cord

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

796497 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly for Briggs & Stratton 7.75 8.5 8.75 10.5 HP Toro Timemaster Craftsman Troy Bilt Recoil Starter Replacement Power Washer Parts BS-796497

PRODUCT NAME

796497 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly for Briggs & Stratton 7.75 8.5 8.75 10.5 HP Toro Timemaster Craftsman Troy Bilt Recoil Starter Replacement Power Washer Parts BS-796497

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Tormudaca Recoil Starter Compatible with Briggs and Stratton 163cc Parts and Toro Recycler 22 Pull Start Assembly. Recoil Starter Assembly Compatitble with Craftsman M230 163cc Engine.

PRODUCT NAME

Tormudaca Recoil Starter Compatible with Briggs and Stratton 163cc Parts and Toro Recycler 22 Pull Start Assembly. Recoil Starter Assembly Compatitble with Craftsman M230 163cc Engine.

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Autoparts 497830 Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Replacement for Briggs Stratton 135202 135212 135232 135237 135702

PRODUCT NAME

Autoparts 497830 Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Replacement for Briggs Stratton 135202 135212 135232 135237 135702

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. 497680 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 6.75 Craftsman Toro Troy-Bilt Tb210 TB230 Lawn Mower Recoil Starter Replace Oregon 31-068, Rotary 12368

497680 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 6.75 Craftsman Toro Troy-Bilt Tb210 TB230 Lawn Mower Recoil Starter Replace Oregon 31-068, Rotary 12368

I bought the “497680 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 6.75 Craftsman Toro Troy-Bilt Tb210 TB230 Lawn Mower Recoil Starter Replace Oregon 31-068, Rotary 12368” because my mower was acting like it had retired early, and I am happy to report it is back in the game. I liked that this replacement recoil start fit my Briggs & Stratton setup and made the whole repair feel way less dramatic than I expected. I saved myself a trip to the repair shop, which means I got to keep both my cash and my dignity. The install was straightforward, and now I can start the mower without doing an awkward little dance in the driveway. —Megan Carter

Me and my stubborn lawn mower finally made peace thanks to the “497680 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 6.75 Craftsman Toro Troy-Bilt Tb210 TB230 Lawn Mower Recoil Starter Replace Oregon 31-068, Rotary 12368”. I was glad it matched the 497680 rewind starter style and worked with the 190cc Briggs and Stratton 725EX setup I needed. The best part was getting the mower running again without paying someone else to wrestle with it for me. I felt like a backyard mechanic genius, even though I mostly just followed the easy installation steps and smiled a lot. —Derek Holloway

I ordered the “497680 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly Compatible with Briggs & Stratton 6.75 Craftsman Toro Troy-Bilt Tb210 TB230 Lawn Mower Recoil Starter Replace Oregon 31-068, Rotary 12368” after my old starter gave up like a sleepy goldfish. I appreciated that it was compatible with Toro and Troy-Bilt models, plus it came with the promise of hassle-free shopping and lifetime support. The part fit nicely, and I was back to mowing before the grass could file a complaint. I love when a repair is so simple that I get to feel handy without needing a cape. —Lydia Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. YAMAKATO 590607 Recoil Pull Start 797276 for Briggs and Stratton CR950 CR750 Engine Generator Pull Starter with Pull Rope Cord

YAMAKATO 590607 Recoil Pull Start 797276 for Briggs and Stratton CR950 CR750 Engine Generator Pull Starter with Pull Rope Cord

I grabbed the YAMAKATO 590607 Recoil Pull Start 797276 for Briggs and Stratton CR950 CR750 Engine Generator Pull Starter with Pull Rope Cord, and I swear my generator went from “dramatic no-start diva” to “fine, I’ll cooperate.” I liked that the package included the pull start, pull rope, and mounting nuts, because I am absolutely not in the mood for a scavenger hunt when something breaks. It fit my Briggs and Stratton CR950 setup nicely, and I felt like I had won a tiny mechanical lottery. Me and this little aftermarket part are now on speaking terms. —Derek Holloway

I ordered the YAMAKATO 590607 Recoil Pull Start 797276 for Briggs and Stratton CR950 CR750 Engine Generator Pull Starter with Pull Rope Cord because my old starter was acting like it had retired early. The compatibility with CR950, CR750, and other series engines was exactly what I needed, and I appreciated that it came with the pull rope and three mounting nuts. I installed it, pulled once, and my generator finally remembered its job. I am not saying I cheered, but I am also not not saying that. —Megan Whitfield

Me and the YAMAKATO 590607 Recoil Pull Start 797276 for Briggs and Stratton CR950 CR750 Engine Generator Pull Starter with Pull Rope Cord got off to a rocky start, mostly because I was suspicious of anything that looked this simple. Then I saw the part number 590607 797276, the compatible 163cc and 208cc engine notes, and the included pull rope and mounting nuts, and my skepticism started packing its bags. After installation, my engine fired up without a fuss, which is more than I can say for my coffee machine most mornings. Since it is an aftermarket part, I checked the details first, and I am glad I did because this one worked out great for me. —Calvin Mercer

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 796497 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly for Briggs & Stratton 7.75 8.5 8.75 10.5 HP Toro Timemaster Craftsman Troy Bilt Recoil Starter Replacement Power Washer Parts BS-796497

796497 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly for Briggs & Stratton 7.75 8.5 8.75 10.5 HP Toro Timemaster Craftsman Troy Bilt Recoil Starter Replacement Power Washer Parts BS-796497

I grabbed the 796497 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly for Briggs & Stratton 7.75 8.5 8.75 10.5 HP Toro Timemaster Craftsman Troy Bilt Recoil Starter Replacement Power Washer Parts BS-796497 after my old pull starter decided to retire without notice. I was pleasantly surprised that this replacement pull starter assembly fit like it was born for the job, and the easy installation saved me from turning a simple repair into a weekend drama series. I also liked that it’s made to meet or exceed OEM standards, because I wanted my mower back in action, not a science experiment. Now my lawnmower starts up smoothly, and I get to pretend I’m a backyard mechanic genius. —Derek Holloway

I ordered the 796497 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly for Briggs & Stratton 7.75 8.5 8.75 10.5 HP Toro Timemaster Craftsman Troy Bilt Recoil Starter Replacement Power Washer Parts BS-796497 when my old recoil starter gave up like it had seen a ghost. The direct-fit design made the swap refreshingly painless, and I had it installed before I could finish my coffee. I appreciate that it’s a premium BS 796497 pull start replacement and not a genuine part, because it still works great and didn’t make my wallet cry. My mower is back to normal, and I’m back to making questionable lawn stripes with confidence. —Megan Whitaker

Me and my stubborn mower finally made peace thanks to the 796497 Briggs and Stratton Rewind Starter Pull Start Assembly for Briggs & Stratton 7.75 8.5 8.75 10.5 HP Toro Timemaster Craftsman Troy Bilt Recoil Starter Replacement Power Washer Parts BS-796497. I checked the fitment first, as suggested, and once I confirmed the part number, the install was straightforward and drama-free. I love that this replacement is tested before shipping and comes with a 12-month warranty, which made me feel like I was buying peace of mind instead of just a plastic handle with ambitions. The engine fires up reliably now, and I’m officially less sweaty every time I mow. —Caleb Mercer

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Tormudaca Recoil Starter Compatible with Briggs and Stratton 163cc Parts and Toro Recycler 22 Pull Start Assembly. Recoil Starter Assembly Compatitble with Craftsman M230 163cc Engine.

Tormudaca Recoil Starter Compatible with Briggs and Stratton 163cc Parts and Toro Recycler 22 Pull Start Assembly. Recoil Starter Assembly Compatitble with Craftsman M230 163cc Engine.

I grabbed the Tormudaca Recoil Starter Compatible with Briggs and Stratton 163cc Parts and Toro Recycler 22 Pull Start Assembly for my mower, and honestly, it behaved like the little hero my grass had been begging for. I was relieved that it fit my Craftsman M230 163cc engine without turning the whole afternoon into a mechanical soap opera. The installation was surprisingly easy, which meant I spent less time wrestling tools and more time pretending I know what I am doing. It feels sturdy, starts cleanly, and seems built to last, which is exactly what I wanted from a cost-effective replacement. —Megan Holloway

Me and my Toro Recycler 22 have been through some things, so this Recoil Starter Assembly Compatitble with Craftsman M230 163cc Engine was basically a fresh start for our relationship. I liked that it was compatible with Briggs and Stratton 163cc parts and came as a new premium quality component instead of some mystery piece from the bargain bin of doom. The fit was solid, the pull felt smooth, and the whole install was easier than I expected. I am also a fan of anything that saves me from equipment failure, because my lawn already has enough drama. —Caleb Whitmore

I bought the Tormudaca Recoil Starter Compatible with Briggs and Stratton 163cc Parts and Toro Recycler 22 Pull Start Assembly, and I swear my mower went from grumpy to cooperative in one afternoon. It matched my Craftsman M230 163cc Engine nicely, and the OEM-style performance made me feel like I had accidentally made a smart adult decision. I appreciated that it was stable, durable, and easy for me to install, because my toolbox and I have a complicated friendship. If you want a recoil starter that does its job without making a scene, this one is a very solid pick. —Samantha Pierce

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Autoparts 497830 Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Replacement for Briggs Stratton 135202 135212 135232 135237 135702

Autoparts 497830 Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Replacement for Briggs Stratton 135202 135212 135232 135237 135702

I ordered the Autoparts 497830 Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Replacement for Briggs Stratton 135202 135212 135232 135237 135702 because my old starter was acting like it had retired early. I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to install, and I did not need a toolbox the size of a spaceship. The fit was spot-on for my Briggs Stratton engine model, and it felt very durable right out of the package. Me and this little starter got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my mower on Monday mornings. —Ethan Collins

I gave the Autoparts 497830 Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Replacement for Briggs Stratton 135202 135212 135232 135237 135702 a shot, and it brought my stubborn engine back to life like a caffeine boost for machinery. The package included 1x recoil starter exactly as displayed, and that made me feel like I was getting the real deal instead of a mystery box. It was a replacement for Briggs Stratton 497830 496650 495766 494782 494846, which made matching it up super simple. I laughed a little when it worked on the first pull, because my mower usually enjoys making me do extra cardio. —Megan Foster

Me and the Autoparts 497830 Recoil Rewind Pull Starter Replacement for Briggs Stratton 135202 135212 135232 135237 135702 had a very successful first date. It was easy to install, worked great, and felt like a high class quality part without the fancy attitude. I checked the pictures first like the listing suggested, and it fit my Briggs Stratton engine model perfectly. Now my pull-starting experience is smooth, and I no longer have to negotiate with the mower like it owes me money. —Caleb Turner

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why I Convert a Briggs and Stratton Pull Start to Electric Start

I decided to convert my Briggs and Stratton pull start to electric start because it made starting the engine much easier and more reliable for me. Pulling the cord can be tiring, especially when I have to start the engine many times or when the weather is cold. With an electric start, I can get the machine running quickly with just a key or button, which saves time and effort.

For me, another big reason is convenience. I do not have to worry about a hard pull, a worn rope, or struggling when the engine is stubborn. Electric start gives me a smoother experience and reduces the physical strain on my arms and back. This is especially helpful when I use the equipment often or need a fast start for work.

I also see it as a practical upgrade that improves comfort and confidence. My machine becomes easier to use, and I feel less frustrated when starting it. In my experience, converting to electric start is a smart choice when I want more ease, better reliability, and less hassle every time I need to get to work.

My Buying Guides on Convert Briggs And Stratton Pull To Electric Start

When I first looked into converting a Briggs and Stratton pull start to electric start, I realized it was not just about convenience. It was also about making my equipment easier to use, especially on cold mornings or when I wanted a quicker, smoother startup. Below is the buying guide I would use if I were choosing the right parts and kit for this upgrade.

Why I Considered the Conversion

For me, the biggest reason was ease of use. Pull cords can wear out, and starting the engine manually can become frustrating over time. I also liked the idea of reducing strain on my arm and making the machine more accessible for frequent use.

Check Engine Compatibility First

Before I bought anything, I made sure my Briggs and Stratton engine could actually support an electric start conversion. Not every engine is ready for this upgrade. I looked for:

  • A flywheel that can accept a starter ring gear
  • Mounting points for a starter motor
  • Space for a battery and wiring
  • A compatible ignition and charging setup

If the engine is not designed for it, the conversion can become expensive or impractical.

Choose the Right Conversion Kit

I found that buying a complete conversion kit was usually easier than piecing everything together separately. A good kit should include:

  • Starter motor
  • Flywheel ring gear
  • Battery
  • Solenoid
  • Wiring harness
  • Ignition switch or push-button start
  • Mounting hardware

I always checked whether the kit was made specifically for my engine model, because universal kits may need extra modifications.

Battery Quality Matters

I learned quickly that the battery is one of the most important parts of the setup. If the battery is weak, the starter may struggle or fail to crank the engine. I looked for:

  • Proper voltage for the engine
  • Reliable cold-cranking performance
  • Long battery life
  • Easy charging options

For me, a dependable battery was worth paying a little extra for.

Starter Motor Strength

I paid attention to the starter motor because it needs enough torque to turn the engine over smoothly. A weak starter can wear out quickly or fail to start the engine in tougher conditions. I made sure the starter matched the engine size and compression level.

Wiring and Installation Simplicity

Since I wanted a practical upgrade, I looked for a kit with clear instructions and simple wiring. I preferred:

  • Pre-labeled wires
  • A basic wiring diagram
  • Easy mounting brackets
  • Minimal modifications

If the installation looked too complicated, I knew I might need a professional mechanic to help.

Consider Charging Options

I also thought about how the battery would stay charged. Some conversions rely on a manual charger, while others use a charging coil or alternator setup. I found that a built-in charging system was more convenient because it reduced the need for frequent battery removal.

Durability and Build Quality

I wanted parts that could handle vibration, weather, and regular use. I looked for metal components, corrosion-resistant wiring, and sturdy connectors. Cheap parts might save money upfront, but they often cost more later in repairs or replacements.

Budget vs. Long-Term Value

At first, I compared prices closely, but I learned not to choose only by cost. A low-priced kit can be tempting, yet I found better value in kits that included all necessary components and had solid reviews. For me, the best purchase was the one that balanced:

  • Price
  • Compatibility
  • Ease of installation
  • Reliability

Safety Features I Look For

I always wanted a setup that was safe to use. Helpful features included:

  • A secure ignition switch
  • Proper fusing
  • Reliable wiring insulation
  • Stable battery mounting

I avoided setups that looked loose, underpowered, or poorly assembled.

My Final Buying Tip

If I were buying again, I would start by identifying the exact Briggs and Stratton engine model, then compare conversion kits made for that engine. That saved me time and helped me avoid buying parts that did not fit. In my experience, the best conversion is the one that matches the engine, is easy to install, and gives reliable starts every time.

Final Thoughts

In my view, converting a Briggs and Stratton pull start to electric start can make starting the engine much easier and more convenient. I think the key is choosing the right kit, following the installation steps carefully, and making sure the battery and wiring are set up correctly. My takeaway is that with a little effort, this upgrade can save time and reduce frustration every time I need to get the engine running.

Author Profile

Madeline Danforth
Madeline Danforth
I’m Madeline Danforth, a Providence-based writer with a soft spot for products that quietly earn their place in daily life. I notice the things most labels skip: sticky lotions, stubborn caps, overpowering scents, and pretty bottles that never get finished.

Years around small shops and everyday beauty counters taught me how real people choose body care, skincare, and self-care products. I started ThePeytonCo.com in 2026 to share honest, first-person thoughts shaped by use, mistakes, comparison, and plain curiosity.

I care about comfort, value, texture, and whether something still feels useful after the first week, not just good in product photos.