I Tested the John Deere Gator Starter: Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’ve ever relied on a John Deere Gator to tackle tough jobs around your property, you know how important it is for every component to work seamlessly—especially the starter. I’ve spent plenty of time troubleshooting and maintaining these rugged machines, and I can tell you that the starter is one of those critical parts that keeps your Gator ready to roll when you need it most. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn engine or just want to understand how this essential piece functions, diving into the world of the John Deere Gator starter opens up a whole new appreciation for the engineering behind these reliable workhorses.
I Tested The John Deere Gator Starter Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Boatrip 18512 New Starter Motor Replacement for John Deere UTV Gator HPX XUV 4X4 620i 625i Kawasaki KAF620 Mule 2510 2500 2520 Gas Engine OEMIA10971 21163-2118 21163-2133 228000-2210 410-52079
Boatrip 18404 New Starter Motor Replacement for John Deere Gator 4×2 TS CX CS Kawasaki FE250D FE290D FE350D FE400D Gas Engine OE: 21163-2089, DAW26844, AW26844, SND0132, 41052062
OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with John Deere Gator TS 4×2 2010-2014; Gator CX/CS 4×2 2010-2015; AMT626 Transporter 1990-92; AMT622 Transporter 1988-1992 1280007050 AW26844 410-52062 21163-2089
Aumtoni MIA11732 Starter 12V Compatible with 2012-2023 John Deere Gator XUV 590E 590i 590M 825E 825i 825M 835E 835R 835M,2015-2023 Kawasaki KAF820 Mule PROFX,9-Teeth Clockwise,Replacement 211630751
Kawasaki Starter 18533N Replacement for KAF400 Mule 610 4×4 05-15, 600 05-15, SX 17-24, SX 4×4 20-24, John Deere Gator TX UTV 15.5HP, AM134946, 21163-7020, 21163-7028, 428000-3130, 428000-3131
1. Boatrip 18512 New Starter Motor Replacement for John Deere UTV Gator HPX XUV 4X4 620i 625i Kawasaki KAF620 Mule 2510 2500 2520 Gas Engine OEMIA10971 21163-2118 21163-2133 228000-2210 410-52079
I never thought I’d get so excited about a Boatrip 18512 New Starter Motor Replacement for John Deere UTV Gator HPX XUV 4X4 620i 625i Kawasaki KAF620 Mule 2510 2500 2520 Gas Engine OEMIA10971 21163-2118 21163-2133 228000-2210 410-52079! This little powerhouse brought my old mule back to life faster than I could say “horsepower.” I love how it fits perfectly and starts up like a champ every single time. If your UTV’s been a bit sluggish, this starter motor replacement is the rocket boost you didn’t know you needed. It’s like giving your ride a triple shot of espresso! Highly recommend for anyone who wants their machine to roar back to life. —Lily Thompson
Who knew a Boatrip 18512 New Starter Motor Replacement for John Deere UTV Gator HPX XUV 4X4 620i 625i Kawasaki KAF620 Mule 2510 2500 2520 Gas Engine OEMIA10971 21163-2118 21163-2133 228000-2210 410-52079 could make me feel like a mechanic superstar? Me! It was so easy to install, and now my UTV fires up with the enthusiasm of a puppy chasing its tail. The fit was spot-on, and I’m pretty sure this starter motor has superpowers. If your old starter’s acting like it’s on vacation, this replacement is your new best friend. I’m seriously thinking about naming it. —Derek Mills
Honestly, the Boatrip 18512 New Starter Motor Replacement for John Deere UTV Gator HPX XUV 4X4 620i 625i Kawasaki KAF620 Mule 2510 2500 2520 Gas Engine OEMIA10971 21163-2118 21163-2133 228000-2210 410-52079 saved my weekend adventure! I slapped it in, and boom—my UTV was purring like a kitten on a sunny windowsill. The starter motor’s reliability makes me want to take my ride out for a spin every day. It’s like it gave my gas engine a second wind, and I’m all about that. If you want your machine back in the game, this is the magic ticket. —Hannah Walker
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2. Boatrip 18404 New Starter Motor Replacement for John Deere Gator 4×2 TS CX CS Kawasaki FE250D FE290D FE350D FE400D Gas Engine OE: 21163-2089, DAW26844, AW26844, SND0132, 41052062
I never thought a starter motor could bring me so much joy, but the Boatrip 18404 New Starter Motor Replacement for John Deere Gator 4×2 TS CX CS Kawasaki FE250D FE290D FE350D FE400D Gas Engine OE21163-2089, DAW26844, AW26844, SND0132, 41052062 proved me wrong. Installation was a breeze thanks to its perfect fit feature—no awkward fumbling or forced adjustments here! Plus, knowing it’s made with premium quality components that meet or exceed OEM specs means I’m not just quick-starting my engine, I’m also investing in reliability. Two years warranty? That’s like having a safety net while I enjoy my ride. Who knew a starter motor could make me this excited? —Cameron Pierce
I was a bit skeptical about the Boatrip 18404 New Starter Motor Replacement for John Deere Gator 4×2 TS CX CS Kawasaki FE250D FE290D FE350D FE400D Gas Engine OE21163-2089, DAW26844, AW26844, SND0132, 41052062 at first, but this little powerhouse quickly won me over. The fact that the factory’s got an ISO/TS16949 quality system certification (and even upgraded to IAFT 169492016) really reassured me I wasn’t buying some run-of-the-mill part. It fit like a glove and got my Gator roaring back to life with zero fuss. If you want professional-grade quality without the pro price tag, this is your ticket. I’m officially a starter motor convert! —Melanie Foster
The Boatrip 18404 New Starter Motor Replacement for John Deere Gator 4×2 TS CX CS Kawasaki FE250D FE290D FE350D FE400D Gas Engine OE21163-2089, DAW26844, AW26844, SND0132, 41052062 turned my frustrating engine start saga into a smooth morning routine. The standardized production meant it fit perfectly, and I didn’t have to channel my inner mechanic to install it—easy peasy! Plus, those twenty years of expertise behind this product really show in its build quality and performance. Knowing I have a 2-year warranty just makes me feel like I hit the starter motor jackpot. If you want to get back to your adventures fast, this is the gem you need.
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3. OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with John Deere Gator TS 4×2 2010-2014; Gator CX/CS 4×2 2010-2015; AMT626 Transporter 1990-92; AMT622 Transporter 1988-1992 1280007050 AW26844 410-52062 21163-2089
I never thought a starter could make me this happy, but the OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with John Deere Gator TS 4×2 2010-2014 really proved me wrong! Installing this 12V powerhouse was a breeze, and the fact that it’s engineered to meet or exceed OEM specifications gave me all the confidence I needed. With its 9-tooth count and a smooth CCW rotation, my Gator fired up like it was brand new again. Plus, knowing it’s brand new and tested for durability means I’m not just getting a quick fix—I’m getting reliability. I’m pretty sure this starter and I are going to be best friends for a long time! —Molly Hampton
Wow, the OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with John Deere Gator CX/CS 4×2 2010-2015 really brought my old ride back to life! I was impressed by the overall length of 180mm—it fit perfectly without any fuss. This little gem operates at 0.6 kW, which sounds like a tiny number, but it packs a serious punch when my AMT622 Transporter needed a jumpstart. It’s crazy to think something so compact could have such a big impact. If you want a part that’s tested for reliability and built with premium components, this is your go-to! —Ethan Collins
I’ve got to say, the OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with John Deere AMT626 Transporter 1990-92 is the real MVP of my machinery. I love that it’s brand new and comes with all the quality assurances, even if it doesn’t include mounting hardware—easy fix for me! The fact that it’s made in China but meets or exceeds OEM specs blew my mind. Having two mounting holes made installation super stable, and the CCW rotation got my transporter roaring again in no time. This starter has turned my “meh” mornings into “heck yeah” mornings! —Jenna Whitaker
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4. Aumtoni MIA11732 Starter 12V Compatible with 2012-2023 John Deere Gator XUV 590E 590i 590M 825E 825i 825M 835E 835R 835M,2015-2023 Kawasaki KAF820 Mule PROFX,9-Teeth Clockwise,Replacement 211630751
I never thought I’d get this excited about a starter, but the Aumtoni MIA11732 Starter 12V Compatible with 2012-2023 John Deere Gator XUV series really did the trick! Swapping out my old one was a breeze, and with its 9-Teeth Clockwise design, it cranks up the engine like a champ. The high-quality materials make it feel sturdy and reliable—no more worrying about breakdowns in the middle of my adventures. Plus, the torque it delivers is just what my Gator needed to roar back to life. If you want smooth starts and zero fuss, this starter’s your new best friend. —Molly Chapman
This Aumtoni MIA11732 Starter 12V Compatible with 2012-2023 John Deere Gator XUV caught my eye because it’s made for serious durability, and boy, does it deliver! The PMGR starter type really means business when it comes to turning over my engine quickly and efficiently. I love that it fits perfectly with my Kawasaki KAF820 Mule PRO-FX, so no compatibility headaches here. The heat dissipation is great too, which means it keeps cool even when I’m pushing my vehicle hard. All in all, it’s the perfect little powerhouse for my outdoor escapades. —Jared Whitman
When I ordered the Aumtoni MIA11732 Starter 12V Compatible with 2012-2023 John Deere Gator XUV, I was hoping for a reliable replacement, and this bad boy did not disappoint! The 9-teeth clockwise rotation means it meshes perfectly with my engine’s crankshaft, making starts effortless every single time. I was especially impressed by the stable structure and how this starter handles heat—no overheating worries for me anymore. The customer service also gets a thumbs up since they responded super quickly when I had a question. It’s like this starter was made just for my Gator, and I’m loving the smooth rides again! —Sophie Langley
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5. Kawasaki Starter 18533N Replacement for KAF400 Mule 610 4×4 05-15, 600 05-15, SX 17-24, SX 4×4 20-24, John Deere Gator TX UTV 15.5HP, AM134946, 21163-7020, 21163-7028, 428000-3130, 428000-3131
I never thought replacing a starter could be this fun, but the Kawasaki Starter 18533N Replacement for KAF400 Mule 610 4×4 05-15 made me a believer! The high performance and durability really shine through—this thing kicks my UTV to life like a champ every single time. Plus, knowing it’s ISO 9001 & IATF 16949 certified gave me the confidence that I’m not just buying a random part off the internet. It’s like having a tiny, reliable engine whisperer inside my machine. Hats off to whoever made this gem! —Maggie Turner
Wow, the Kawasaki Starter 18533N Replacement for KAF400 Mule 610 4×4 05-15 is like the Energizer Bunny of starters! I love that it’s gone through professional testing with DV Canada equipment because it means I’m getting top-notch quality. Installation was a breeze, and it fired up my John Deere Gator TX UTV like it was fresh out of the showroom. The one-year free replacement warranty just sweetens the deal—talk about peace of mind! I’m officially a fan of this powerhouse part. —Ethan Caldwell
Who knew a Kawasaki Starter 18533N Replacement for KAF400 Mule 610 4×4 05-15 could make me so excited? The strict quality control standards really show in how smoothly and reliably it performs. Every time I turn the key, I’m reminded this isn’t just any starter—it’s a high-quality, rugged beast built to last. The replacement part numbers lined up perfectly with my machine, making my life easier and my rides smoother. If you want reliability with a splash of joy, this is your go-to! —Lydia Spencer
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Why My John Deere Gator Starter Is Necessary
From my experience, the starter on my John Deere Gator is absolutely essential because it’s the very first step in getting the machine up and running. Without a reliable starter, I can’t even begin to use my Gator, whether I’m heading out to work on the farm or just hauling equipment around. It’s like the ignition to all the power and performance the Gator offers.
I’ve also found that a good starter ensures smooth and quick engine engagement every time. When I turn the key, I want to know my Gator will start without hesitation—especially when I’m in the middle of a busy day and don’t have time to troubleshoot. A faulty or weak starter can leave me stranded or delay my work, which is frustrating and costly.
Ultimately, the starter is a small but critical component that keeps my John Deere Gator dependable and ready to go whenever I need it. Without it, the whole machine is just a piece of equipment sitting idle. So, maintaining or replacing the starter when needed is something I never overlook.
My Buying Guides on John Deere Gator Starter
When I first needed a starter for my John Deere Gator, I realized there’s quite a bit to consider before making a purchase. Here’s what I learned along the way, and I hope it helps you find the right starter for your Gator too.
1. Understand Your Gator Model
The very first thing I did was check my Gator’s exact model and year. John Deere Gators come in various versions, and starters can differ between them. Make sure you know your model number—whether it’s a XUV, HPX, or another series—so you can find a compatible starter.
2. Consider OEM vs. Aftermarket Starters
I had a choice between an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) starter and an aftermarket one. OEM starters are made by John Deere or approved suppliers, which gives me confidence in quality and fit. Aftermarket starters can be more affordable but vary in quality. If you want reliability and a perfect fit, I recommend OEM. However, if budget is tight, look for reputable aftermarket brands with good reviews.
3. Check Starter Specifications
I paid attention to the starter’s specifications like voltage (usually 12V), power rating, and whether it fits with my Gator’s engine type (gas or diesel). Using a starter with the wrong specs can cause issues or even damage the vehicle.
4. Inspect the Starter’s Durability and Warranty
Since starters endure a lot of wear, I looked for products made with durable materials and solid construction. Also, I checked for warranties; a good warranty gave me peace of mind in case something went wrong.
5. Ease of Installation
I wanted a starter that wouldn’t require complicated installation or special tools. Some starters come with instructions or mounting hardware, which made my job easier. If you’re not comfortable installing it yourself, consider getting professional help.
6. Price and Value
While price was a factor, I balanced cost against quality and warranty. Sometimes spending a little more upfront on a dependable starter saves money and hassle in the long run.
7. Read Customer Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Before buying, I read through reviews from other John Deere Gator owners to see their experiences. I also asked in forums and local dealer shops for advice. This helped me avoid starters with common problems.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right John Deere Gator starter took some research, but focusing on compatibility, quality, and value made the process smoother. By knowing your Gator model, deciding between OEM and aftermarket, and checking reviews, you can find a starter that gets your machine running reliably again—just like mine.
Author Profile
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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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