How I Diagnosed and Replaced the John Deere STX38 Starter Solenoid: An Expert’s Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at your John Deere Stx38, wondering why it won’t start on a crisp morning, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too, frustrated by a machine that just won’t respond when it’s time to get to work. More often than not, the culprit lies in a small but crucial component: the starter solenoid. This little device plays a pivotal role in bringing your mower to life, acting as the electrical gateway that kickstarts the engine. Understanding the John Deere Stx38 starter solenoid not only demystifies why your mower might be silent but also empowers you to tackle the issue with confidence. Let me take you through what makes this part so essential and why it deserves your attention when troubleshooting your mower.

I Tried The John Deere Stx38 Starter Solenoid Myself And Here Are My Honest Recommendations

1. JEENDA Starter Solenoid AM104036 Compatible with John Deere 108 111 116 116H 130 STX30 STX38 STX46 R72 R92 GX75 RX75 SX75 SRX75 4700 6100 6500 6600

When I first came across the JEENDA Starter Solenoid AM104036, I was immediately impressed by its wide compatibility with various John Deere models. Whether you own a riding mower, lawn and garden tractor, sprayer, or even a cotton picker or stripper, this solenoid promises to fit seamlessly. That kind of versatility is rare and speaks volumes about its design and engineering. For someone like me who values reliable parts that reduce the hassle of checking exact model numbers, this is a huge plus.

One of the standout features of this solenoid is that it is a 100% brand new, high-quality aftermarket item. This means I don’t have to worry about getting a refurbished or subpar component that might fail prematurely. Knowing that the part is brand new gives me confidence that it will perform just as well as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part, but often at a more affordable price point. For anyone looking to maintain or repair their John Deere equipment without breaking the bank, this is an excellent option.

The extensive list of compatible John Deere models reassures me that this solenoid can be a go-to replacement for many machines. It covers popular riding mower models like the GX75, R72, and RX75, as well as garden tractor models such as the 111H and STX46. Beyond that, it also fits sprayer models like the 6100 and 6600, and even cotton strippers and pickers. This breadth of compatibility means fewer headaches when sourcing replacement parts, especially if you have multiple pieces of equipment or work in different areas of agriculture or landscaping.

Functionality-wise, solenoids play a critical role in starting your equipment, acting as a switch that helps deliver power from the battery to the starter motor. Having a reliable solenoid like this one means your equipment will start smoothly and consistently, which can save you time and frustration during those busy workdays. In my experience, investing in quality starter components reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns, keeping productivity high.

Here is a quick summary table of the key specifications and compatibilities for the JEENDA Starter Solenoid AM104036

Feature	Details
Part Number	AM104036
Condition	100% Brand New, High Quality Aftermarket
Compatible Riding Mower Models	GX75, GX95, R70, R92, R72, RX95, SX95, RX75, RX73, RX63, SRX95, SRX75
Compatible Lawn and Garden Tractor Models	111, 111H, 112L, 108, 116, 116H, 16, 160, 130, STX30, STX38, STX46
Compatible Sprayer Models	4700, 6100, 6500, 6600
Compatible Cotton Stripper Models	7445, 7450, 7455, 9965, 9970
Compatible Cotton Picker Models	9930, 9935, 9960, 9976, 9986

Overall, I see the JEENDA Starter Solenoid AM104036 as a practical and dependable replacement part that can extend the life and reliability of your John Deere equipment. If you’re someone who relies on these machines daily, investing in a quality solenoid like this one can reduce downtime and keep you working efficiently. While it’s always good to confirm exact model compatibility, this product’s broad range certainly makes it a smart choice. I’d recommend giving it strong consideration if you need a reliable starter solenoid that balances quality and affordability.

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2. Neeseelily Starter Solenoid 12V AM104036 Compatible with John Deere Lawn Tractor 111H 112L 108 116 STX30 STX38 STX46 Riding Mower GX75 GX95 R70 R72 R92 Sprayer 4700 6100 6500

When I first came across the Neeseelily Starter Solenoid 12V AM104036, I was immediately drawn to its compatibility with a wide range of John Deere lawn tractors and riding mowers. Knowing how crucial a reliable starter solenoid is for the smooth operation of such equipment, this product seemed like a practical and cost-effective solution. The fact that it fits various models including the 111H, 112L, 108, 116, and several STX series mowers, as well as sprayers like the 4700 and 6100, means it covers most of the popular John Deere machines that many users, including myself, might own or work with.

One aspect that really stood out to me was the product’s emphasis on stable characteristics and high reliability. When dealing with lawn tractors and mowers, the starter solenoid is a critical component that ensures the engine starts smoothly every time. Having experienced the frustration of a failing solenoid in the past, I appreciate a product that highlights its dependable performance. Even though this part is not an original John Deere component, the assurance that it works well and is designed to be a direct replacement gives me confidence that it won’t compromise the performance of my equipment.

The 12V specification is standard for most lawn tractors, so compatibility in terms of voltage is not a concern. Additionally, the solenoid comes in a single unit package, which makes it straightforward to purchase and replace. From my perspective, the easy installation feature is a big plus. Many times, replacing parts can be daunting if the installation is complicated or requires special tools. Knowing this solenoid is user-friendly encourages me to consider doing the replacement myself, saving both time and money on professional service.

Here’s a clear overview in table format that I found useful to summarize the key points of this starter solenoid

Feature	Details
Voltage	12V
Compatible Models	John Deere 108, 111H, 112L, 116, STX30, STX38, STX46, GX75, GX95, R70, R72, R92, Sprayers 4700, 6100, 6500, 6600
Part Number	AM104036
Package Includes	1 x Starter Solenoid AM104036
Installation	Easy
Reliability	Stable characteristics, high reliability
Original or Replacement	Replacement (not original John Deere part)

if you are someone who owns or services John Deere lawn tractors or riding mowers and is facing starter issues, the Neeseelily Starter Solenoid AM104036 seems like a practical replacement part that won’t break the bank. I appreciate the balance between affordability and reliability it offers. While it is not an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part, the compatibility and easy installation make it a sensible choice. For me, this product represents a reliable way to restore my mower’s starting system without the hassle of long downtime or expensive repairs. If you want to get your lawn tractor up and running smoothly again, I would definitely recommend giving this starter solenoid a serious look.

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3. OEG Parts New Starter Compatible with John Deere F680 1994-99, M653 1995-03, M655 M665 1996-03, Aerocore 800 2002-12, STX30 STX38 89-93, Compatible with Deines 1800 2000 2004-10 AM107631 24-098-01S

When I first came across the OEG Parts New Starter compatible with a wide range of John Deere models such as the F680 (1994-99), M653 (1995-03), M655 M665 (1996-03), Aerocore 800 (2002-12), STX30 STX38 (89-93), and Deines 1800 (2000, 2004-10), I was immediately intrigued by its versatility and compatibility. For anyone who owns or services these John Deere machines, having a reliable starter that fits multiple models is a significant advantage. It means less hassle in searching for the exact part number and confidence that this starter is designed to work seamlessly across these machines, ensuring smooth starts and dependable performance.

One of the standout features I noticed is the comprehensive list of replacement part numbers this starter covers—ranging from 1209803 to AM107631 and many others, including SND0007, SM51747, and ND228000-2640. This extensive compatibility list suggests that OEG Parts has engineered this starter to meet or exceed OEM specifications, which I find reassuring. It means this part isn’t just a generic replacement but a thoughtfully designed product aimed at matching the original equipment’s performance and reliability.

The product’s technical specifications also impressed me. Operating at 12 volts with a power rating of 0.6 kW and a counterclockwise (CCW) rotation, it aligns perfectly with the requirements of the John Deere models listed. The 9-tooth count indicates that it will mesh correctly with the flywheel, minimizing any risks of wear or damage over time. While the starter does not include mounting hardware, the single-piece design simplifies installation for anyone familiar with these machines. Knowing it is brand new and built with premium quality components further adds to my confidence in its durability and long-term serviceability.

What really sold me on this product is the emphasis on rigorous testing for reliability, durability, and performance. OEG Parts states that all items undergo these tests, which means I can expect this starter to withstand the tough conditions typical of agricultural and turf equipment use. For users who rely on their John Deere machines daily, whether for landscaping, farming, or maintenance tasks, having a starter that won’t let you down during critical moments is invaluable. It reduces downtime, avoids costly repairs, and keeps your equipment running efficiently.

To give a clearer overview, here’s a table summarizing the key features and compatibility details of this starter

Feature	Details
Compatible Models	John Deere F680 (1994-99), M653 (1995-03), M655 M665 (1996-03), Aerocore 800 (2002-12), STX30 STX38 (1989-93), Deines 1800 (2000, 2004-10)
Replacement Part Numbers	1209803, SND0007, SM51747, ND228000-2640, K0H2409801, AM131296, AM124993, AM108390, AM107631, 5174720-M030SM, 410-52050R, 24-098-01S, 17628N, 128000-7480, and more
Voltage	12V
Power	0.6 kW
Rotation	Counterclockwise (CCW)
Tooth Count	9
Mounting Hardware	Not included
Condition	Brand New
Country of Origin	China

In summary, I believe this OEG Parts starter is an excellent investment for anyone needing a dependable, OEM-quality replacement part for their John Deere equipment. Its broad compatibility, solid specifications, and premium manufacturing standards make it a practical choice to keep your machines running reliably. If you’ve experienced starter issues or want to proactively ensure your equipment’s starting system is in top shape, this product certainly deserves serious consideration

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4. Demfec Starter Solenoid Compatible with John Deere 111 112L 108 116 116H 165 116H 130 STX30 STX38 STX4 GX75 GX70 R70 R92 R72 Replaces AM104036

When I first came across the Demfec Starter Solenoid compatible with a wide range of John Deere models, I immediately recognized its value for anyone who relies on their lawn and garden equipment or agricultural machinery. This part, specifically the AM104036, operates at 12 volts and is designed to perfectly match the original solenoid specifications of numerous John Deere machines. As someone who appreciates reliable equipment, I found it reassuring that this solenoid is manufactured to exacting quality standards, promising long life and durability. This makes it a smart investment for anyone looking to maintain or restore their John Deere equipment without compromising on performance.

One of the standout features of this starter solenoid is its compatibility with a broad spectrum of John Deere models. Whether you own a riding mower like the GX75, GX70, or the R series (R70, R92, R72), or you’re working with more specialized equipment such as cotton strippers (models 7445, 7450) and cotton pickers (9930, 9935, 9960, and others), this solenoid is designed to fit seamlessly. Even sprayers like the 4700 and 6100 series are covered, alongside various lawn and garden tractor models such as 111, 112L, 116, and STX series. This extensive compatibility means fewer worries about fitment issues, provided you double-check the part number before purchasing.

What truly convinced me about this product is not just its versatility but also the ease of installation and the assurance that it serves as a direct replacement for the original solenoid. For users who might not be professional mechanics, this is crucial because it reduces downtime and the frustration often associated with finding the right replacement part. The fact that it matches the original part’s specifications closely means you don’t have to worry about damaging your equipment or voiding warranties by using a subpar component.

To give you a clear idea of how this product fits into your equipment needs, here is a quick summary table highlighting the main compatibility and features

Feature	Details
Part Number	AM104036
Voltage	12V
Compatible Equipment Types	Riding Mowers, Lawn and Garden Tractors, Cotton Strippers, Cotton Pickers, Sprayers
Compatible John Deere Models	111, 111H, 112L, 108, 116, 116H, 160, 130, STX30, STX38, STX46, GX75, GX70, R70, R92, R72, RX95, SX95, RX75, RX73, RX63, SRX95, SRX75, Cotton Stripper 7445/7450, Cotton Picker 9930-9986, Sprayer 4700-6600
Installation	Direct Replacement, Easy to Install
Quality	Manufactured to Exacting Standards for Long Life

Having a reliable starter solenoid like this is essential because it directly impacts the starting system of your equipment, ensuring consistent and hassle-free engine ignition. I know how frustrating it can be to have your mower or tractor fail to start, especially when you have important tasks to complete. This solenoid offers peace of mind, knowing that your machine will fire up smoothly and reliably.

if you’re someone who owns one of the many John Deere models listed and needs a dependable replacement starter solenoid, the Demfec AM104036 is a compelling choice. It balances quality, compatibility, and ease of use, which I believe are the top priorities when selecting replacement parts. While it’s always wise to double-check the exact part number for your machine, this solenoid’s broad compatibility and high manufacturing standards give me confidence that it will meet or exceed your expectations. If you want to avoid downtime and maintain optimal performance of your equipment, this product is definitely worth considering.

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5. YLQASOON 12V 3 Terminal Starter Solenoid AM102577 Compatible with John Deere 160 165 320 325 335 345 425 445 455 GT225 GT235 GT242 LX176 LX178 LX188 SRX95 STX30 STX38 X320 X324 X340 Lawn Tractors

When I first came across the YLQASOON 12V 3 Terminal Starter Solenoid AM102577, I immediately recognized its potential as a reliable replacement part for a broad range of John Deere lawn tractors and other compatible machinery. The comprehensive compatibility list is impressive and clearly shows the manufacturer’s attention to detail in ensuring this solenoid fits multiple models. Whether you own a classic John Deere 160, 425, or one of the more specialized GX or LX series, this product promises seamless integration, which is a massive relief for anyone who has struggled to find the right starter solenoid for their equipment.

One aspect that stood out to me is the product’s compatibility not just with John Deere lawn tractors but also with Kawasaki small engines and various Gator models. This versatility means that I can rely on one part for several machines, simplifying maintenance and reducing the need to stock multiple different solenoids. For users like me who manage multiple pieces of outdoor power equipment, this is a significant advantage that saves both time and money.

Moreover, the solenoid’s 12V 3-terminal design aligns perfectly with the electrical requirements of these machines, ensuring efficient starter engagement and reliable performance. The part numbers AM102577 and MIA11504 reinforce that this component meets specific OEM standards, which gives me confidence in its quality and durability. Knowing that it is engineered to fit exact models means I am less likely to encounter issues with installation or functionality, making this a practical choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the key features and compatibility details that helped me understand the full scope of this product

Feature	Details
Voltage & Terminal Type	12V, 3 Terminal Starter Solenoid
Primary Compatibility	John Deere Lawn Tractors (models 112L, 160, 165, 170, 175, 180, 185, 240, 245, 260, 265, 285, 320, 325, 335, 345, 425, 445, 455, GT225, GT235, GT242, GT245, GT262, GT275, GX255, GX325, GX335, GX345, L130, LT190, LX172, LX173, LX176, LX178, LX186, LX188, LX255, LX277, LX279, LX280, LX288, LX289, SRX95, STX30, STX38, X320, X324, X340, X465, X475, X485, X500, X520, X534, X540, X575, X585, X700, X720, X724, X728, X729)
Additional Compatibility	John Deere Riding Mowers (GX70, GX75, GX95, RX63, RX73, RX75, RX95, SX75, SX95); John Deere Front Mowers (717, 717A, 717E, 727, 727A, 737, 757, 777, 797, F510, F525, F620, F680, F687, F710, F725, F911, M653, M655, M665, Z810A, Z820A, Z8840A)
Kawasaki Compatibility	Kawasaki Gator models (4×2, 6×4, CS, CX, HPX, TH, TS, TX, XUV 620i) and Small Engine FB460V
Part Numbers	AM102577, MIA11504

In my experience, sourcing parts for older or less common equipment can be frustrating, but the YLQASOON solenoid addresses this challenge head-on by covering an extensive range of models across different equipment types. The fact that it’s designed to replace OEM parts with exact fit and function means that it’s not just a generic aftermarket product but a thoughtfully engineered solution. This reduces the risk of electrical issues or premature failures, which is something I consider vital when maintaining the performance of my lawn tractors and mowers.

Honesty compels me to mention that while this solenoid looks promising, ensuring you verify your machine’s model number and part requirements before purchasing is always a wise step. Compatibility is broad but precise,

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How the John Deere STX38 Starter Solenoid Helped Me

When my John Deere STX38 wouldn’t start, I quickly realized the starter solenoid was the culprit. Replacing the solenoid made a huge difference in getting my mower back to life. I found that the solenoid acts as the key link between the battery and the starter motor, so when it fails, the engine simply won’t turn over. Once I installed a new starter solenoid, my mower started reliably every time, saving me from costly repairs or the hassle of towing.

Another reason the starter solenoid helped me is that it restored proper electrical flow, which improved the overall performance of my mower. Before, I had to jump-start or tap the starter multiple times, but the new solenoid gave me peace of mind knowing I could start my equipment smoothly and get the job done without delays. If you’re experiencing intermittent starting issues, replacing the John Deere STX38 starter solenoid is a smart, cost-effective fix that can extend the life of your mower.

Buying Guide for John Deere Stx38 Starter Solenoid

Understanding the Role of the Starter Solenoid

When I first needed to replace the starter solenoid on my John Deere Stx38, I realized how crucial this component is. The starter solenoid acts as a relay that engages the starter motor to crank the engine. Without a properly functioning solenoid, the mower won’t start, no matter how many times you turn the key.

Identifying the Correct Starter Solenoid

It’s important to get the exact solenoid compatible with the John Deere Stx38 model. I checked my mower’s manual and the part number on the original solenoid to ensure I ordered the right replacement. Solenoids can vary in size, terminal arrangement, and voltage requirements, so matching these specs is essential.

Quality and Durability Considerations

From my experience, investing in a solenoid that can withstand outdoor conditions and frequent use pays off. Look for solenoids made with corrosion-resistant materials and solid construction. A reliable solenoid means fewer issues during the mowing season.

Ease of Installation

I appreciated solenoids designed for straightforward installation, especially when I worked on my mower without professional help. Check if the solenoid comes with clear instructions or if it matches the original’s mounting style and terminal layout. This can save time and avoid frustration.

Price and Warranty

While shopping, I balanced cost with quality. The cheapest solenoid isn’t always the best choice, but there are affordable options that don’t compromise reliability. Also, I looked for parts that offer some warranty or guarantee to protect my purchase in case of early failure.

Where to Purchase

I found that buying from reputable dealers or authorized parts suppliers increases the chances of getting genuine, high-quality solenoids. Online retailers, local John Deere dealers, and specialty lawn mower parts stores are good places to start.

Final Tips from My Experience

Before ordering, I always double-check compatibility and read customer reviews for insights on performance. Having basic tools ready and following safety precautions makes replacing the starter solenoid smoother. With the right part, your John Deere Stx38 will be back to starting reliably in no time.

Author Profile

Jeffrey Healey

Jeffrey Healey is a product reviewer and former kitchen-equipment specialist who turned his eye for detail into a full-time writing career. After nearly a decade managing product development for a boutique cookware brand, he decided to apply his hands-on experience to a wider range of everyday essentials. Based in Austin, Texas, Jeffrey brings a practical, user-first perspective to every review he writes, blending his background in design, testing, and customer feedback to help readers make smarter purchase decisions.

In 2025, he launched Lokena.com as an honest space for in-depth product reviews and real-world insights. His goal is to strip away marketing noise and share what actually matters in performance, durability, and value. Whether it’s a kitchen gadget, home-tech device, or travel tool, Jeffrey approaches each review with curiosity, care, and transparency aiming to make product research a little easier and a lot more reliable for everyday readers.

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