14 Tooth Starter Motor Replaces for 42 inch Troy Bilt Bronco, Pony Riding Lawn Mower Tractors with Briggs Stratton Intek IC OHV 17HP 17.5HP 18HP 18.5HP 19HP 19.5HP 20HP Engine Review

Overview

This isn’t a lawn mower—it’s a critical replacement part for one. The 14 Tooth Starter Motor from Tooth is designed specifically to get your Troy-Bilt Bronco or Pony riding mower back in action when the original starter fails. It’s built for tractors running Briggs & Stratton Intek IC OHV engines from 17HP up to 20HP, making it a direct, drop-in fix for a common failure point. If your rider clicks instead of cranks, this is the part you need.

Who Should Buy This

• Troy-Bilt Bronco and Pony owners with a dead starter—this is the most common replacement for these popular models, especially those with 42-inch decks.
• DIY homeowners who want to save a $100+ dealer visit. If you can turn a wrench and swap two bolts, this is a straightforward job.
• Anyone with a Briggs & Stratton Intek engine in the 17-20HP range, even if your tractor isn’t a Troy-Bilt. This starter fits many Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Murray riders with the same engine series.
• Budget-conscious fixers who need a reliable part without paying OEM prices. At $56.95, it’s roughly half the cost of a genuine Briggs starter.

Key Features Breakdown

• 14-Tooth Drive Gear: This is the exact tooth count used by Troy-Bilt Bronco and Pony models with Intek engines. Using a 13-tooth or 15-tooth starter will cause grinding or improper engagement. The 14-tooth ensures a perfect mesh with the engine’s flywheel ring gear.
• Compatible with Briggs & Stratton Intek IC OHV Engines: Specifically covers 17HP, 17.5HP, 18HP, 18.5HP, 19HP, 19.5HP, and 20HP variants. That’s nearly every Intek single-cylinder used in these tractors from the mid-2000s onward.
• Replaces OEM Part Numbers: Cross-references with Briggs 590483, 690934, 691031, and Troy-Bilt 490-501-M062. If you’re looking up your mower’s manual, these numbers match.
• Bolt-On Installation: No modifications needed. The mounting holes align with the engine’s starter flange, and the electrical connector is a standard spade terminal. Expect a 30-minute job with basic hand tools.
• New, Not Remanufactured: This is a brand-new unit, not a rebuilt core. That means fresh brushes, bearings, and windings, which often outlast a reman part.

Pros

1. Direct fit for common Troy-Bilt models – No shimming, no filing, no cursing. It bolts right up to the Intek engine block.
2. Significantly cheaper than OEM – Genuine Briggs starters run $100-$130. This delivers the same function for less than $60.
3. Strong cranking power – The motor turns over 17-20HP engines reliably, even in cold weather when oil is thick.
4. New construction – Unlike remanufactured starters that may have worn internals, this unit is fresh from the factory, reducing the risk of early failure.
5. Broad engine compatibility – Covers multiple HP ratings, so if you upgrade your engine or switch tractors, it still works.
6. Easy DIY installation – Two bolts and one wire connector. If you can change a car battery, you can swap this starter.

Cons

1. Not for all Troy-Bilt models – Only fits 42-inch Bronco and Pony tractors with Intek engines. Older units with Kohler or larger twin-cylinder engines need a different starter.
2. Quality control can vary – Some users report the mounting holes are slightly misaligned (about 1-2mm off). A quick file adjustment fixes it, but it’s an annoyance.
3. No warranty details listed – The product page doesn’t clearly state a warranty period. You’re relying on the seller’s return policy.
4. Plastic gear housing – The gear casing is plastic, not metal. It’s durable enough for normal use, but if you frequently start in extreme cold or with a seized engine, a metal-housed starter would be tougher.

Bottom Line

If your Troy-Bilt Bronco or Pony riding mower with a Briggs Intek engine is giving you the dreaded click-of-death, this 14-tooth starter motor is the smart, affordable fix. It’s not a premium OEM part, but it does exactly what it’s supposed to—crank your engine reliably—at half the price. The occasional fitment quirk is minor and easily handled with a file. I recommend this for any DIY homeowner who wants to keep their mower running without paying dealer rates. For $56.95, it’s a solid value that’ll get you back to cutting grass.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will this starter fit my Troy-Bilt Pony with a 17.5HP Briggs engine?
A: Yes, as long as your Pony is a 42-inch deck model with a Briggs & Stratton Intek IC OHV engine. Check your engine’s model number (stamped on the valve cover)—if it’s in the 17-20HP range, this starter is a match.

Q: How do I know if my starter is bad vs. a dead battery?
A: A dead battery usually gives a slow crank or no sound at all. A bad starter often produces a single loud click (the solenoid engaging but the motor not spinning) or a grinding noise. If your battery is fully charged and you hear a click, it’s likely the starter.

Q: Do I need to remove the engine or deck to install this?
A: No. On most Troy-Bilt Bronco and Pony models, the starter is accessible from the right side (under the hood or near the battery tray). You may need to remove a plastic shroud or battery, but the deck and engine stay in place. Plan for about 30 minutes of work.