Sun Star starter

[strohman]

Hello. New here....I have a 1691528 Sun Star 18HP with the Koehler engine. I believe I need a new starter. Priced one locally at my Simplicity dealer and it was about $225. Does that sound right? I haven`t "dug into yet", but is installing a new starter pretty straight forward? Or is it one of those deals where you have to loosen up the engine to get to it? Don`t hardly ever use this tractor anymore and was debating on whether to even keep it or just sell it.
Thanks,
strohman

 

[skunkhome]

What's the model number on the engine? I would not expect the starter to be more than about $70-80.

 

[skunkhome]

Was that $225 installed or just parts?

 

[strohman]

Model is M18S. $225 was just for the part. The guy said Koehler must think their starters are really special for the prices they charge.
Thanks,
strohman

 

[skunkhome]

Some one correct me if I am wrong but Kohler doesn't make their starters. I believe they are currently using Johnson Electric likely from China. I have only seen Sunstar tractors from afar so I am only assuming it is likely that you will at least have to lift the engine to install a new starter. I have a Sten starter on my K341 and it works like a champ. Name brand manufacturers usually offer a warranty which takes away much of the risk you might think you are incurring by buying an aftermarket starter for 1/3 to 1/4 the cost of the OEM ( Johnson Electric)

 

[strohman]

Finally had time to do some research. Found 4 starters from a online business. Price from $80 to $190. Cheapest being non OEM, and most expensive is Kohler. Cheapest looking good now. Now need to tear into it to see what all is involved.
Thanks,
strohman