Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B&G Platinum 19.5 hp starter, craftsman riding lawn mower, recoil starter

Question
I have a Craftsman riding lawn mower with the B&G 19.5 Platinum that the starter is bad on. I tried replacing it with one that Sears said was correct but the mount for the starter was different. So I took the mount off the old stater and when I took it apart I noticed the hole through which the starter motor shaft was to go through was worn into a slight oval. I figured this was why the old starter went bad, from rubbing the sides of the starter magnets. There was NO bushing in the hole just pot metal. Not having any other choice I mounted the new starter in the original bracket and installed the starter. It lasted about 4 starts ($100 down the tubes). The motor runs great when started. Is it possible to mount a rope pull start assembly on this engine. Of all the things to short change on design. The starter. Absolutely amazing. Any suggestion is greatly appreciated.

Answer
They do not sell a manual recoil starter for those bigger engines.  You might be able to make one from other parts but it would take a lot searching.

Have you checked with a local electric motor shop to see if they can rebuild your starter?

Eric