Recoil Starter Replacement for Honda GC135 GC160 GCV135 GCV160 Pull Starter 28400-ZL8-023ZA,Red

What It Is

This is a complete recoil starter assembly (pull start) for Honda GC135, GC160, GCV135, and GCV160 engines. It replaces the OEM part number 28400-ZL8-023ZA and is used on walk-behind mowers, pressure washers, and small generators powered by those engines.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Direct fit for Honda GC135, GC160, GCV135, and GCV160 engines only. Not compatible with GX, GXV, or other Honda series.
• OEM cross-reference: 28400-ZL8-023ZA. Aftermarket version, so verify your existing starter matches visually (same mounting hole spacing and rope length).
• Check rope length: This unit ships with rope pre-installed. Measure your old rope—if longer, you may need to re-spool. If shorter, it may not fully retract.
• Measure mounting bolt pattern: Center-to-center distance between the two mounting holes should be ~2.5 inches. Confirm yours matches before ordering.

Key Things to Know

• Installation difficulty: Easy (15-20 minutes). Requires removing two bolts, disconnecting the old starter, and bolting on the new one. No special tools.
• Quality note: Aftermarket, so the plastic housing may feel slightly thinner than OEM. It works reliably, but expect a shorter lifespan under heavy use.
• Common gotcha: The rope may be a bit stiff initially—cycle it a few times before mounting to loosen it.
• Red color: Cosmetic only. Does not affect function, but if you care about matching, note it’s bright red, not Honda OEM gray/black.

Should You Buy It

If you have a Honda GC or GCV engine with a broken or weak recoil starter, this is a solid budget fix. It’s not built as tough as the OEM part, but at $9.99 it’s a third of the price and works perfectly for light-to-moderate use. Best for homeowners who want a quick, cheap repair without hunting for OEM parts. Skip it if you run a commercial mowing business or need maximum durability.