Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Briggs & Stratton starter

Question
QUESTION: 12v B&S starter:
Looking for a B&S starter drive Part #390581
or a complete starter #390551
my starter motor is ok, but the drive unit is broken. Used part ok if the drive is good.
This part is disscontinued or obsolete in most parts look ups.
Thanks for any help.

ANSWER: Is the starter on a 5 hp engine?

If so, they are really, really rare.  I have only seen 1 in the last 15 years or so; actually saw one last year in our bone yard.  Not too sure if we saved the starter as we took the engine to the scrap yard.

Ebay might be the best source.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Briggs-Stratton-VERTICAL-mower-motor-5hp-small-engine-el

Eric

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Eric
Yes it is a 5hp. I've exhausted ebay and other B&S web sites, will probably have best luck going to old established small engine shops and just get lucky.

Answer
Yeah, try your local shops first as you never know what they may have lying around.

The starter may be more common on snow blower engines but they were 120 volt starters if I recall.  However, the drive parts are probably the same parts on the 120 and 12 DC starters.

Eric