Recoil Starter for Tecumseh 590739 590472 590621 590686 590694 590702 590737 590785,Oregon 31-117 Stens 150-575 Lawnboy Toro Craftsman Lawn Mower Replacement Parts

What It Is

This is a replacement recoil starter assembly designed for Tecumseh engines used on walk-behind mowers from brands like Lawn Boy, Toro, and Craftsman. It pulls the starter cord to crank the engine, and it’s a direct swap for worn or broken OEM units.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, check your engine’s model number (stamped on the engine shroud or block). This starter fits Tecumseh engines with OEM part numbers 590739, 590472, 590621, 590686, 590694, 590702, 590737, and 590785. It also matches aftermarket replacements Oregon 31-117 and Stens 150-575. The housing measures roughly 5.5 inches in diameter with a standard 3-bolt mounting pattern. Verify your engine’s bolt hole spacing and shaft diameter (usually 1/4-inch) to ensure it lines up. It will not fit Honda, Briggs & Stratton, or Kohler engines without adapters.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: This is a budget aftermarket part—works fine for light-duty use, but the plastic housing and rope may wear faster than OEM. Expect 1-2 seasons of regular mowing.
• Installation difficulty: Easy to moderate. You’ll need a screwdriver and pliers. Remove the old starter, transfer the mounting bolts, and align the rope guide. No special tools required.
• Common gotcha: The pull rope length is pre-set—if your mower needs a longer or shorter rope, you’ll have to re-tie the knot. Also, check that the spring is fully wound before installing (it comes pre-tensioned, but verify it snaps back).
• Brand confusion: This is sold under “EGO” but is not the same as EGO battery-powered mower parts. It’s a generic aftermarket brand label for Tecumseh-style starters.

Should You Buy It

If you have a Tecumseh-powered mower and need a cheap, quick fix for a broken recoil starter, this part will get you mowing again. It’s fine for occasional use or older machines where OEM parts cost more. But if you mow several lawns a week or want long-term durability, spend more on an OEM or Stens-branded unit.