Steel Gear Starter 5742N 16 Teeth Replacement - Durable Starter Gear

In this review the Steel Gear Starter 5742N is assessed as a no-nonsense replacement starter gear for lawn and garden engines. The bottom line: this part is aimed at DIYers and small repair shops who need a reliable, lightweight replacement that fits a broad range of Briggs and Stratton, Cub Cadet and John Deere engines. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of precision molding and high-strength composite construction that delivers quiet, dependable engagement without the cost or weight of metal gears.

Key Features

• Material: Precision-molded high-strength composite plastic provides excellent durability and fatigue resistance for longer service life.
• Compatibility: Fits many Briggs and Stratton engines from 1972-2006 and several Cub Cadet and John Deere models, making parts sourcing simpler for older machines.
• Teeth count: The 16-teeth gear ensures smooth engagement and reduces the chance of gear slip or jam during starting.
• Weight and response: Lightweight design contributes to faster engine response and less strain on the starter mechanism.
• Direct replacement: Designed as a direct OEM replacement for common part numbers, allowing straightforward DIY installation without modifications.
• Wear resistance: Superior wear resistance keeps engagement quiet and reliable even under frequent heavy loads.

Who It's For

This starter gear is best for homeowners maintaining lawn mowers, garden tractors or riding mowers and for small service shops needing a cost-effective replacement for older engines. It is particularly suited to machines with Briggs and Stratton engines manufactured between 1972 and 2006 where original parts may be aged or hard to find.

Those who should look elsewhere include operators of very high-performance or unusually heavy-duty commercial equipment that demands hardened steel gears, or anyone needing a part guaranteed for modern, high-output engines beyond the stated compatibility range.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable composite construction reduces fatigue and resists wear compared with cheaper plastics.
• Wide compatibility across Briggs and Stratton, Cub Cadet and John Deere engines simplifies repairs for older machines.
• 16-teeth design promotes smooth, quiet engagement and lowers the risk of starter slip.
• Direct-fit replacement makes installation quick for DIY and professional repairs.

Cons

• Composite plastic, while durable, is not a hardened steel gear and may not suit extreme commercial usage over long periods.

Specifications

Brand	VERIDRIV
Part number replacements	497595, 391423, 390838, 392749, AM122337, 497594, 435303, 393499, 394805
Teeth	16
Material	High-strength composite plastic
Compatible engines	Briggs & Stratton 1972-2006 (7HP-22HP), Cub Cadet, John Deere, air-cooled engines
Typical use	Lawn mowers, garden tractors, riding mowers

Our Verdict

The Steel Gear Starter 5742N is a practical, value-focused replacement for older garden equipment where compatibility and quiet, reliable engagement matter. It is a strong choice for DIYers or small shops repairing Briggs and Stratton, Cub Cadet, or John Deere machines from the stated years, offering straightforward installation and dependable performance without the premium cost of metal counterparts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this fit my Briggs and Stratton engine?
It fits many Briggs and Stratton engines manufactured from 1972 to 2006 in the 7HP-22HP range; check original part numbers listed to confirm fit.

Is the gear metal or plastic?
The gear is precision-molded from a high-strength composite plastic designed for durability and wear resistance.

Can I install it myself?
Yes, it is a direct replacement intended for straightforward DIY installation or professional fitting without complex modifications.