Do you like electric start or pull start?

[RockoT]

I have always had pull start.
What do most of you have?
How long do the batteries last on electric start machines?
Anything more to break?
Do they also have a pull cord as a back up just incase the battery dies?

 

[oneness]

Electric start, absolutely! The only problem I've had is the solenoid went out, but that was a $16.00 repair. Pull starting an easy to start 13hp is one thing...pull starting an 18 or 24 hp engine is quite another...Mine has a pull start also, in case I have a problem with the electric start...but it's damn hard to start that way, especially with the fact that I have it mounted in the trailer, so it is raised another 18 inches or so off the ground.

 

[beyoungsr]

Rocko T,

On a large engine electric start is the way to go.
Buy one like Mikes that allows you to do both.

I have a 15 hp Kohler the I manualy start without any problems.

We always start with an open gun and no nozzle. Makes it easier and confirms you have flow prior to starting.

You can also help a large engine start by installing a momentary off switch in the low oil circuit.

The differance it makes is substantial. Once the switch is released that system functions as it normaly would. Starting will be easier in the electric and manual mode.

If you are low on oil it will shut down after starting.

 

[Mike Hughes]

Electric, most have pull starts as well. Yes, there's more to go wrong..........but I think it's worth it. My battery lasted 4 years on one of my machines.

 

[oneness]

Mike:

Mine has been on this machine for three years now, though it was used very little in the first two years, before I bought it. The $50.00 or so for a new batter every two or three or four years is damn well worth it for not having to pull start that things 10 times a day.