Ruma Pull Start Recoil Starter Assembly for Kohler 14 165 07 S 14 165 07-S XT650 XT675 XT775 XT800 XT149 XT173 XT-6 XT-7 MTD Toro Viking Engine Lawn Mower

What It Is

The Ruma Pull Start Recoil Starter Assembly is a replacement starter for Kohler Courage XT-series engines (XT650, XT675, XT775, XT800, XT149, XT173, XT-6, XT-7) used on MTD and Toro lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, and Viking-branded engines. It replaces OEM part 14 165 07 S.

Fitment & Compatibility

Check before buying:

• Engine model – Must be Kohler XT650, XT675, XT775, XT800, XT149, XT173, XT-6, or XT-7. Look for a model decal on the engine shroud or valve cover.
• OEM number – Directly replaces Kohler 14 165 07 and 14 165 07-S. If your original has a different part number, measure the bolt pattern (typically 3” center-to-center) and the rope length (usually 48-60 inches).
• Brand fit – Works on Toro, MTD, Viking, and other machines with the above engines. Not universal – not for Honda, Briggs, or Kawasaki engines.
• Deck size irrelevant – This starter is engine-specific, not deck-size specific. No need to measure cutting width.

Key Things to Know

• Build quality – Ruma is an aftermarket brand. Generally reliable for the price ($13.95), but may feel slightly less robust than OEM Kohler. Rated 4.6/5 from 104 reviews, with most users citing good value.
• Installation – Moderate difficulty. Requires removing 2-4 bolts and transferring the rope handle and rope from old to new (rope not pre-installed on some units). Have a 3/8” socket and a flathead screwdriver ready.
• Common gotcha – The rope may be too long or short for your application. Measure your old rope before trimming. Also, check that the recoil spring is wound in the correct direction (clockwise vs counterclockwise) – reversing it will cause the starter to lock up.
• Warranty – Typically 30-day return window, no long-term warranty. Buy two if you need a spare for heavy-use mowers.

Should You Buy It

If you have a Kohler XT-series engine with a failed recoil starter and want a budget-friendly fix, this is a solid choice. It’s not built for commercial-duty abuse, but for home lawn care on a Toro or MTD tractor, it’s reliable and easy to install. Skip it if you need OEM exactness or have a different engine brand.