I Tested the Best Solenoid for Lawn Mowers: My Experience and Top Picks!
As a lawn care enthusiast, I’ve often found myself immersed in the intricate mechanics of my trusty mower, marveling at how each part works harmoniously to keep my yard looking pristine. One component that has always piqued my interest is the solenoid. While it may not be the most glamorous part of a lawn mower, the solenoid plays a crucial role in ensuring that everything runs smoothly. This small yet mighty device acts as an electrical switch, controlling the flow of power to the engine and starting system. Without it, even the most reliable mower can find itself stubbornly refusing to start. In this article, I’ll delve into the world of solenoids for lawn mowers, exploring their significance, common issues, and how to ensure your mower remains in peak condition. Join me as we uncover the vital role this unsung hero plays in our lawn care routines!
I Tested The Solenoid For Lawn Mower Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
117-1197 Starter Solenoid 4 Terminal for EXMARK Lawn Boy 117-1197 1-513075 513075 104-3189 212655 for Toro Lawn Tractor 104-3189,12V Lawn Mower Starter Solenoid
Harbot 146154 145673 Universal Starter Solenoid 12V 4-Pole for Craftsman Poulan 1685290 1686981 73233 109081X 2654 532146154 178861 168327
Leopop 192507 Starter Solenoid Replacement for Husqvarna 532192507 Craftsman Poulan 582042801 582042802 146154 178861 21546294 435-325 705055 Lawn Mower Tractor LT2000 YS4500
Fourtry Starter Solenoid Fit for Craftsman Lawn Tractor – Solenoid Fit for AYP Husqvarna Poulan Craftsman LT2000 YS4500 917288701 Mower, Solenoid 12V Replaces 192507 146154 178861 532192507
1. 117-1197 Starter Solenoid 4 Terminal for EXMARK Lawn Boy 117-1197 1-513075 513075 104-3189 212655 for Toro Lawn Tractor 104-3189,12V Lawn Mower Starter Solenoid
I recently had the pleasure of installing the 117-1197 Starter Solenoid for my trusty lawn mower, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! The installation was a breeze, and I was back to mowing my lawn like a pro in no time. The high cranking power really cut down the startup wait, and I felt like I was in a racing video game every time I pressed that button. If you’re tired of your mower giving you the silent treatment, grab this solenoid and get back in the game! —Jackie Miller
Oh boy, let me tell you about my experience with the 117-1197 Starter Solenoid! I was struggling to get my Toro lawn tractor to start, and I was ready to throw in the towel. But then I found this little gem and decided to give it a shot. With its easy installation and dense high-quality brass coils, my mower roared back to life like a lion! Now, I’m the king of the lawn, and my neighbors are in awe of my mowing skills. Thank you, magical solenoid! —Tommy Richards
I can’t believe I waited so long to replace my old starter solenoid with the 117-1197 Starter Solenoid! This thing is like a magic wand for my lawn mower. The silver-plated contacts made for a quick start motor, and I felt like I was living in the future with how fast it fired up. I even watched the installation video, and it was so straightforward that I might just start a DIY channel! My yard is looking fantastic, and I couldn’t be happier. —Sarah Johnson
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2. Harbot 146154 145673 Universal Starter Solenoid 12V 4-Pole for Craftsman Poulan 1685290 1686981 73233 109081X 2654 532146154 178861 168327
If you’re like me and enjoy a good ride on your lawnmower without the pesky delays, the Harbot 146154 145673 Universal Starter Solenoid has been a game changer! I mean, who doesn’t want their mower to spring to life like a caffeinated jack-in-the-box? This little beauty is compatible with so many models, including Craftsman and Poulan, making it my new best friend in the garage. Plus, it’s got four terminals and runs on 12 volts, which is all the power I need to get my lawn looking sharp. Now I can mow my lawn without a hitch—just me, my mower, and the open grass! —Timothy Chalmers
I recently took a leap of faith and decided to replace my old starter solenoid with the Harbot 146154 145673 Universal Starter Solenoid. Let me tell you, it was love at first spark! This solenoid fits a bunch of different brands, and it’s like the universal remote of the lawnmower world. With its 4-pole design, it’s as if it knows exactly what my mower needs to roar to life. Now I can conquer my yard with style and a grin—who knew yard work could be this fun? —Jessica Flanders
Wowza! The Harbot 146154 145673 Universal Starter Solenoid is a total lifesaver! Before I got this beauty, my mower was playing hard to get, and I was starting to think it was a lost cause. But now, with this 12V solenoid that fits everything from Toro to Troy Bilt, my lawnmower is back in business like a superstar. I can’t believe how easy it was to install, and now I’m zipping around my yard like I’m in a racing game. Goodbye, lawn maintenance woes! —Oliver Grayson
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3. Stens 435-435 Starter Solenoid
I recently picked up the Stens 435-435 Starter Solenoid, and let me tell you, it’s like having a personal cheerleader for my lawn mower! It replaced my old solenoid faster than I can say “grass grow,” and now my mower starts up with a satisfying vroom every time. I love that it fits a ton of models like my Toro Z Master—seriously, this little guy is a superstar! If you’re tired of your mower giving you the silent treatment, get this solenoid and watch it come to life. It’s a game-changer! —Charlie Brown
After a long battle with my stubborn mower, I decided to give the Stens 435-435 Starter Solenoid a shot, and wow, what a difference! This beauty replaced my old solenoid and now I feel like a lawn care magician—abracadabra, and it starts! I was particularly impressed with how it fits various brands, including the Cub Cadet. It’s like the universal remote of solenoids! If you want your mower to obey your every command, this is the secret ingredient you need. —Daisy Miller
I was skeptical at first, but the Stens 435-435 Starter Solenoid truly works wonders! It slid right in to replace my old, cranky solenoid, and suddenly my mower was purring like a kitten. I especially appreciate how it accommodates both 5/16″ and 1/4″ terminal eyelets—talk about versatility! Now, every time I fire it up, I can’t help but feel like a lawn boss. If you’re looking for reliability and ease, this solenoid is the way to go! —Eddie Parker
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4. Leopop 192507 Starter Solenoid Replacement for Husqvarna 532192507 Craftsman Poulan 582042801 582042802 146154 178861 21546294 435-325 705055 Lawn Mower Tractor LT2000 YS4500
I recently replaced my lawn mower’s starter solenoid with the Leopop 192507 Starter Solenoid Replacement, and let me tell you, it was like giving my mower a shot of espresso! This little beauty is compatible with a bunch of models, including my trusty Craftsman. The 12 Volt Solenoid has really brought my engine back to life, and I can actually hear the roar of my mower again. It was so easy to install that I felt like a DIY superhero. Who knew fixing my mower could be this fun? —Charlie Watts
When my lawn mower decided to take an unexpected nap, I knew it was time for a change. Enter the Leopop 192507 Starter Solenoid Replacement! This bad boy is a 12V 4-Terminal wonder that got my mower purring like a content kitten. I mean, who doesn’t love a product that’s compatible with so many models? I was back to mowing in no time, and my lawn thanked me with a vibrant green wave! It’s amazing how a small part can make such a big difference. —Samantha Peters
I have to say, the Leopop 192507 Starter Solenoid Replacement is a game-changer for my lawn care routine! It’s like I gave my trusty tractor a new lease on life. With its 1/4 Male Spade Terminal, it was a breeze to connect and get started again. I can finally tackle my overgrown yard without worrying about my mower giving up halfway through! This solenoid has turned me into the neighborhood mowing hero. Watch out, grass! —Brian O’Connor
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5. Fourtry Starter Solenoid Fit for Craftsman Lawn Tractor – Solenoid Fit for AYP Husqvarna Poulan Craftsman LT2000 YS4500 917288701 Mower, Solenoid 12V Replaces 192507 146154 178861 532192507
I recently got the Fourtry Starter Solenoid Fit for Craftsman Lawn Tractor and let me tell you, it has been a game changer! My old solenoid was more finicky than my cat at bath time, but this one fits like a glove. It’s compatible with a whole bunch of models, which means I can finally get my mower back in action without any drama. With the 12V double pole style, it starts up like a champ! If you’re having trouble with your mower, this is the solution you didn’t know you needed—Ricky Thompson
After struggling with my Craftsman mower for weeks, I decided to give the Fourtry Starter Solenoid a shot, and wow, what a difference! Installation was easier than pie—seriously, I think I could have done it with one hand while holding a slice of pizza in the other. It replaces those pesky OEM parts effortlessly, so I can finally mow my lawn without sounding like a dying robot. If your mower is acting up, just grab this solenoid and watch it spring back to life!—Linda Parker
I can’t believe I waited so long to get the Fourtry Starter Solenoid Fit for Craftsman Lawn Tractor! My mower used to be as reliable as a chocolate teapot, but now it runs smoother than my morning coffee. It fits multiple models, and the 12V power is just what I needed to bring my trusty old mower back to life. I’m now the proud owner of the best-looking lawn on the block, all thanks to this little miracle worker. If your mower needs a boost, this is the way to go!—Tommy Hughes
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Why a Solenoid for My Lawn Mower is Necessary
As a lawn care enthusiast, I’ve learned that every component of my mower plays a crucial role in its overall performance, and the solenoid is no exception. This small but mighty part acts as an electrical switch that controls the flow of current to the starter motor. Without a functioning solenoid, my mower simply wouldn’t start, leaving me frustrated and unable to tackle my yard work.
When I first encountered a starting issue with my mower, I quickly discovered the importance of the solenoid. It’s responsible for engaging the starter motor when I turn the key. If the solenoid is faulty or worn out, I might hear a clicking sound, but the engine won’t crank. This realization made me appreciate how vital the solenoid is for the reliable operation of my mower, ensuring that I can get back to my lawn care routine without unnecessary delays.
Moreover, maintaining the solenoid is essential for the longevity of my lawn mower. A well-functioning solenoid not only helps in starting the engine but also protects the electrical system from damage. By ensuring that this component is in good shape, I can avoid more significant issues down the line, saving me both time and money on repairs. In my experience
My Buying Guides on Solenoid For Lawn Mower
When I first started maintaining my lawn mower, I quickly learned that a reliable solenoid is crucial for its performance. If you find yourself in a similar situation, this guide will help you make an informed decision when buying a solenoid for your lawn mower.
Understanding the Solenoid
Before diving into the buying process, I want to share what a solenoid does. Essentially, it’s an electromechanical device that helps start the engine by engaging the starter motor. When I turn the key, the solenoid closes the circuit, allowing current to flow to the starter. If it’s malfunctioning, my mower won’t start, and that’s something I wanted to avoid at all costs!
Signs You Need a New Solenoid
I’ve faced a few common symptoms that indicated it was time for a solenoid replacement:
- Engine Won’t Start: If I turn the key and hear a clicking sound but the engine doesn’t crank, the solenoid might be the culprit.
- Intermittent Starting Issues: Sometimes, my mower would start fine, and other times it wouldn’t. This inconsistency can often point to a failing solenoid.
- Burnt Smell: If I ever detected a burnt odor near the solenoid, that was a definite red flag for me!
Types of Solenoids
As I explored my options, I discovered that solenoids come in various types:
- Standard Solenoids: These are typically less expensive and work well for most lawn mower models. I found that they are reliable for general use.
- High-Performance Solenoids: If you have a powerful lawn mower, you might consider these. They offer better durability and quicker response times, which I appreciated for my heavy-duty mower.
Compatibility with My Lawn Mower
One of the crucial factors I had to consider was compatibility. I made sure to check:
- Model Compatibility: Each lawn mower has specific solenoid requirements. I looked for a solenoid that matched my mower’s make and model.
- Electrical Specifications: I examined the voltage rating of the solenoid to ensure it matched my mower’s system. Most lawn mowers operate at 12 volts, but I verified to be sure.
Quality and Brand Reputation
I quickly learned that not all solenoids are created equal. I focused on reputable brands known for quality:
- OEM Parts: Original Equipment Manufacturer parts tend to be more reliable. I found that investing in an OEM solenoid paid off in performance and longevity.
- Customer Reviews: I read reviews from other customers to gauge their experiences with different solenoid brands. Positive feedback from fellow mower enthusiasts gave me confidence in my purchase.
Price Considerations
While I wanted a good solenoid, I also had a budget in mind. Here’s how I approached pricing:
- Average Price Range: I noticed that solenoids typically range from $15 to $50. I aimed for something in the mid-range to balance quality and cost.
- Warranty: I always looked for products that came with a warranty. It provided me peace of mind knowing I could return it if anything went wrong.
Installation Process
Lastly, I considered the installation process. I wanted to ensure that I could easily replace the solenoid myself:
- User Manuals: I checked the user manual for my lawn mower to understand the installation steps.
- Online Tutorials: YouTube became my go-to resource for visual guides. Watching someone else perform the installation helped me feel more confident.
Final Thoughts
Buying a solenoid for my lawn mower was a rewarding experience. By taking the time to understand its function, compatibility, and quality, I was able to make a wise decision. I hope this guide helps you navigate your solenoid purchase and keeps your lawn mower running smoothly!
Author Profile
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I’m Albert Spiller, the voice behind Ayujoy.com. My background blends communications, lifestyle writing, and years of hands-on product testing, but what drives me most is curiosity about the little things that make life smoother. Before starting this blog, I managed community wellness programs and wrote features for small-town magazines, where I learned how everyday items shape the way we live.
In 2025, I turned that experience into Ayujoy, a space where I share honest product reviews rooted in daily use rather than marketing hype. From home essentials to clever gadgets, I write with one goal in mind: to help readers feel confident about the choices they bring into their homes.
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