Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Kohler Starter, craftsman riding mower, horseshoe shape

Question
QUESTION: I have a Craftsman riding mower with a Kohler Pro20 HP V-twin engine. It started fine first time this Spring but then the starter would continue to spin upon start up. The bendix would engage the gear for a short burst but then nothing. If it would start the starter wouldn't stop spinning until I pulled the battery cables. I pulled the starter off, opened it up and found the horseshoe shape mechanism that the solenoid pushes to throw the bendix onto the gear had melted. There was burnt plastic inside the case. Any ideas how to purchase this cheap plastic part by itself? I imagine either the solenoid or starter relay is bad as well but I need to start with replacing this part. No idea of the proper term/name for it but any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated...the grass is growing early this year.

Thanks.

ANSWER: Hello Joe:

You can View a Breakdown of the Engine at this Site Addy; http://www.kohlerplus.com/login.asp and Select Enter as Guest. Now Select the Thumbnail of the Catalog you Wish to View. Select the Starter System of your Engine. If the Part you Require is Available, it will be Listed in the Breakdown. If Not Listed, then you will have to Purchase a New Starter. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John


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

QUESTION: I tried the site. It is very detailed but no luck on this particular part. In fact they don't even list it. Any other thoughts? If not, I guess I'll start my search for a new starter. For this search is it better to take on the expense of a Kohler replacement or is it worth to purchase a cheaper aftermarket; the Kohler only lasted 5 years and new is about $180.00.

Thanks again,

Joe

Answer
Hello Again Joe:

I Usually Purchase My Kohler Starters from Outdoor Distributors @ 1-877-707-2787 (http://www.outdoordistributors.com/). A Kohler Starter, #2509809-S (Stens # 435331) Costs $139.00us. A Suggestion; Use Automotive Battery Cables and you will Get Better Service Out of the Starter and Solenoid. The Larger the Diameter of the Battery Cable the More CCA's the Cable can Carry and the Cooler the Starter and Solenoid Operate During the Starting Process. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John