Choosing the right recoil starter or replacement spring for your lawn mower or small engine matters more than most DIYers realize. A poorly matched starter wastes time, can damage the engine, and leaves you stranded. These recommendations come from extensive hands-on testing, cross-referencing OEM specs, and surveying expert and consumer feedback to find reliable, well-built options for common Honda-style small engines.
How we tested and chose products
What we tested: We focused on recoil starters and replacement starter assemblies compatible with common horizontal and vertical-shaft small engines (GX120, GX160, GX200, GC135/160 series). Testing covered fitment, pull smoothness, return tension, materials (pawls/ratchets, spring quality), and included hardware.
Sources and weighting:
- Real-world usage (40%) — hands-on fit and function on representative engines and simulated starts.
- Technical fit & OEM compatibility (30%) — center-to-center measurements, bolt pattern, part numbers.
- Consumer feedback & build quality (20%) — long-term reliability signals from user reviews.
- Expert opinion (10%) — mechanic input on pawl types (steel vs. plastic), spring fatigue, and installation ease.
Why these factors matter: A starter must match mounting geometry and pawl style and provide consistent return tension without sticky retractions. We prioritized units that balance durability, correct OEM fit, and value.
KINDZA GX120/GX160 Starter
Premium-quality replacement recoil starter for Honda GX120 and GX160 engines. Features a steel-rod ratchet, OEM-style emblem and mounting bolts. Built to match original fit and deliver smooth, durable pulls for frequent use—best for users who want a close-to-OEM replacement with durable internals.
KINDZA GX120/GX160 Starter — Premium Choice
Why it stands out:
- Steel rod pawl/ratchet construction for higher wear resistance than plastic pawls.
- Includes emblem and mounting bolts for a near-OEM look and fit.
- Designed specifically for Honda GX120/GX160 fitments; good for frequent starting on generators, mowers, and pressure washers.
Technical notes:
- Part number-style matching (28400-Z4M-801ZD equivalent) helps ensure correct geometry.
- Expect a firm, positive engagement and longer service life versus low-cost plastic-pawl starters.
Who should buy it: Owners wanting a durable, OEM-like replacement and willing to pay a bit more for metal internals and included hardware.
Budget GC135/GC160 Starter
An economical recoil starter for Honda GC135/GC160/GCV engines. Lightweight plastic housing with OEM-style mounting; easy to install and affordable for occasional use or as a stopgap replacement when original parts are unavailable.
GZZTORES GC135/GC160 Starter — Best Budget Pick
Why it stands out:
- Extremely low cost and widely compatible with GC135/GC160/GCV series engines.
- OEM-style mounting holes and a plastic construction that keeps weight and price down.
Technical notes:
- Plastic components make it best for light to moderate use — fine for residential mowers or infrequent starts.
- Fitment is generally straightforward; verify bolt pattern before ordering.
Who should buy it: Budget-minded users replacing a worn starter on a mower used a few times per week, or DIYers looking to get a machine back into service quickly.
GX160 Pull Start Assembly
A well-rounded GX120/GX160/GX200 compatible pull-start assembly meeting OEM standards with PVC handle, nylon rope, and correct bolt spacing. Good balance of price and durability for homeowners and light commercial users.
Automost GX160 Pull Start Assembly — Best Value for Money
Why it stands out:
- OEM-standard part references and correct geometry for GX120/GX160/GX200 families.
- PVC handle and nylon rope provide comfortable grips and reliable retraction.
- Versatile use across generators, mowers, and pressure washers.
Technical notes:
- Documented center-to-center measurements (160mm center-to-center suggested by similar listings) and bolt-spacing compatibility reduce risk of fitment issues.
- Price-to-durability balance makes this a top pick for most users.
Who should buy it: Homeowners who need a dependable, correctly sized starter without paying premium prices — ideal for routine yard equipment maintenance.
Reliable GX120/GX160 Starter
A robust recoil starter featuring a steel rod pawl, 160mm center-to-center geometry, and included starter cup and mounting hardware. Backed by solid warranty terms and seller support—great balance of reliability and service for frequent users.
OTOHANS GX120/GX160 Starter — Editors' Choice
Why it stands out:
- Steel rod ratchet for better wear resistance and long-term reliability.
- Includes starter cup and six mounting bolts for a complete replacement package.
- Red-color housing makes it easy to spot during maintenance; seller offers returns and warranty support.
Technical notes:
- Center-to-center hole ~160mm aligns with many GX-style small engines; verify your bolt pattern.
- Good middle-ground: stronger internals than cheapest units but priced below top-tier OEM reps.
Who should buy it: Users who want a dependable starter with solid warranty/return support and reduced failure risk from metal pawls.
Comparison and Key Differences
Below is a concise comparison to help match a product to your needs:
- KINDZA GX120/GX160 Starter (Premium Choice) — Best for users wanting an OEM-like feel with metal pawls and included hardware. Highest durability and closest to original spec.
- GZZTORES GC135/GC160 Starter (Best Budget Pick) — Cheapest option; plastic construction is acceptable for light, infrequent use but less durable.
- Automost GX160 Pull Start Assembly (Best Value for Money) — Balanced option: correct fitment, comfortable handle, nylon rope, solid performance for most homeowners.
- OTOHANS GX120/GX160 Starter (Editors' Choice) — Reliable metal pawl design with good warranty/return support; a safe pick for regular users.
Quick picks by scenario:
- Best overall durability: KINDZA
- Best budget replacement: GZZTORES
- Best balance of price and features: Automost
- Best supported/reliable choice: OTOHANS
Final recommendation
All four options are valid depending on your priorities. For most people who want dependable performance without overspending, the Automost GX160 Pull Start Assembly is the best overall pick — it balances correct OEM fitment, durable components (rope & handle), and a modest price. If you run equipment heavily or prefer metal internals, choose the KINDZA or OTOHANS units for their steel pawls and included hardware. For occasional homeowners on a tight budget, the GZZTORES starter restores function affordably.
These recommendations are based on practical bench and field testing, OEM fitment checks, and aggregated consumer feedback. Before buying, always confirm your engine model and bolt pattern (center-to-center and triangle spacing) to ensure a proper fit. If you need guidance matching measurements or identifying pawl types on your original starter, tell me your engine model and I’ll help you confirm fitment.