593959 591139 Recoil Starter for Briggs and Stratton 550EX 500E, Compatible with Troy-Bilt TB200 TB110 & Craftsman M110 M115, Replaces 590588 593961 595355, 140cc 150cc Lawn Mower Pull Start Assembly

What It Is

This is a replacement recoil starter assembly for Briggs & Stratton 550EX and 500E engines (140cc–150cc), commonly used on Troy-Bilt TB200/TB110 and Craftsman M110/M115 walk-behind mowers. It replaces the original pull-start mechanism when the rope snaps, spring breaks, or the housing cracks.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Engine check: Must be Briggs & Stratton 550EX or 500E (verify model number on engine shroud, not mower deck). Fits 140cc and 150cc variants only.
• Mower brands: Troy-Bilt TB200, TB110; Craftsman M110, M115. Also fits select MTD, Yard Machines, and Bolens models with the same engine.
• OEM cross-references: Replaces 590588, 593961, 595355. Not a direct OEM part—this is aftermarket.
• Physical fit: Measure mounting hole spacing (typically 3.5" center-to-center) and overall housing diameter (~4.5"). The rope length is 48 inches; ensure your mower’s handlebar clearance matches.
• Avoid if: Your engine is a 190cc, 160cc, or any non-550EX/500E series—different bolt pattern.

Key Things to Know

• Installation difficulty: Moderate. Requires removing 2–3 bolts, transferring the rope guide and any plastic cover from your old starter. No special tools, but a screwdriver and pliers help.
• Quality variance: Aftermarket plastic housing is slightly thinner than OEM; may feel less sturdy. Most users report it works fine, but a few note premature spring failure after 1–2 seasons.
• Common gotchas: The rope may need slight pre-stretching (pull it out fully once before installing). Also, the mounting holes might need minor filing if alignment is off—don’t force bolts.
• Warranty: Typically 30-day return window. No manufacturer warranty beyond that.

Should You Buy It

If you have a 550EX/500E engine mower and need a budget-friendly fix for a broken pull start, this is a solid choice—just expect it to last about as long as a standard season of heavy use. It’s not for pros or commercial mowers; for occasional residential use, it’s a good value at $17.89.