Best Heavy Duty Vehicle Starters of 2025

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2025

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Heavy duty vehicle starters are essential components for trucks, buses, and other large vehicles. These starters are designed to provide the necessary power to start the engine of these heavy-duty vehicles. They are built to withstand the demanding conditions of the transportation industry, including extreme temperatures and high vibration environments. Heavy duty vehicle starters are available in a range of sizes and configurations to meet the needs of different vehicle models and applications. They are a critical part of any heavy-duty vehicle's engine system and are a key component in ensuring reliable and efficient operation.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DB Electrical Starter for Hyster Forklift Cover #TOP 1
DB Electrical Starter for Hyster Forklift
ftb score rating icon 9.9
DB Electrical Starter for Kubota Excavators Cover #TOP 2
DB Electrical Starter for Kubota Excavators
ftb score rating icon 9.8
DB Electrical Starter SBO0111 for Bobcat Clark Loader Cover #TOP 3
DB Electrical Starter SBO0111 for Bobcat Clark Loader
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Heavy Duty Vehicle Starters

#TOP 1

DB Electrical Starter for Hyster Forklift

410-12349
DB Electrical Starter for Hyster Forklift Cover
DB Electrical 410-12349 Starter For Hyster LPM Yale Fork Lift Truck 2.4L GM Engine /9000890/1548620 /580044885, YT580044885

The DB Electrical Starter is a reliable choice for your Hyster LPM Yale Fork Lift Truck with a 2.4L GM engine. It operates on a 12-volt system and features a clockwise rotation with 9 teeth, ensuring efficient performance. This starter is a new aftermarket product designed to meet OEM specifications, providing you with peace of mind when it comes to quality and compatibility. Additionally, it comes with a one-year warranty, so if you encounter any issues after installation, you can easily get a replacement, making your purchase worry-free.

What We Like
High-quality aftermarket component
One-year warranty included
Compatible with multiple models
Easy installation
#TOP 2

DB Electrical Starter for Kubota Excavators

410-52295
DB Electrical Starter for Kubota Excavators Cover
DB Electrical SND0343 Starter Compatible With/Replacement For Kubota KX121-3 Excavator V2203MEBH 42HP Diesel 05-13 / Tractors Compact L48TL L5240 / Tractors Utility MX5000DT MX5000F / V2403 48HP 50HP

The DB Electrical Starter is designed for Kubota excavators and tractors, providing reliable performance with a 12-volt power supply and a clockwise rotation. It features nine teeth and a robust 2.0 kW capacity, ensuring efficient engine starts. This starter replaces several OEM numbers, making it a versatile choice for various models. With a one-year warranty, you can purchase with confidence, knowing that if any issues arise, a replacement is readily available. This product is a new aftermarket option built to meet OEM specifications, ensuring compatibility and durability for your heavy-duty vehicles.

What We Like
High compatibility with multiple models
1-year warranty for peace of mind
Built to OEM specifications
Efficient starting performance
#TOP 3

DB Electrical Starter SBO0111 for Bobcat Clark Loader

410-24232
DB Electrical Starter SBO0111 for Bobcat Clark Loader Cover
DB Electrical SBO0111 Starter Compatible With/Replacement For Bobcat Clark Loader 722 732 16595, Skid Steer 632, Mercury Auto & Truck, Capri 6514006 6514398 6665502 6670269 110336 110870 111269

DB Electrical Starter is a reliable unit suitable for Bobcat, Clark Loader, and more. With a 12-volt voltage and 10 teeth, this Starter operates clockwise with a power of 0.8 KW. It replaces various OEM numbers, ensuring compatibility and functionality. The Starter comes with a 1-year warranty, offering you peace of mind. This aftermarket Starter is 100% new and meets OEM specifications, providing a cost-effective and efficient solution for your vehicle's starting needs.

What We Like
12V Voltage
10 Teeth
1-year Warranty
#TOP 4

DB Electrical Starter for International Kenworth

410-12134
DB Electrical Starter for International Kenworth Cover
DB Electrical SDR0126 Starter For International Kenworth Truck Bus Series 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 / Cummins IHC Engines 41MT 12 Volt / 10461169, 1993969, 2011847C91

The DB Electrical Starter is designed to provide reliable performance for a variety of International and Kenworth truck models from 1993 to 2007. With a 12-volt power supply and clockwise rotation, it ensures efficient starting every time. The starter features 12 teeth, making it compatible with numerous heavy-duty applications. Additionally, this product replaces several OEM numbers, offering you a convenient option if you need a replacement. You can purchase with confidence, knowing it comes with a one-year warranty for added peace of mind.

What We Like
Reliable performance
Compatible with various models
12-volt power supply
One-year warranty
#TOP 5

DB Electrical SND0405 Starter for Bobcat, Clark Kubota 753, 763, 773 Skid, 825 T190

410-52141
DB Electrical SND0405 Starter for Bobcat, Clark Kubota 753, 763, 773 Skid, 825 T190 Cover
DB Electrical SND0405 Starter Compatible with/Replacement for Bobcat, Clark Kubota 753, 763, 773 Skid, 825 T190 /Clark 753 763 773

This is a heavy-duty vehicle starter with 12 voltage, 11 teeth, and 2.7 KW power, which is compatible with or a replacement for Bobcat, Clark Kubota 753, 763, 773 Skid, and 825 T190. It replaces OEM numbers and comes with a 1-year warranty. This 100% new aftermarket starter is built to meet OEM specifications for Bobcat, Clark.

What We Like
Heavy-duty starter
Replaces OEM numbers
1-year warranty
#TOP 6

DB Electrical Starter for Bluebird Bus and Ford

410-52059
DB Electrical Starter for Bluebird Bus and Ford Cover
DB Electrical SND0583 Starter Compatible With/Replacement For Bluebird Bus 3116 3126 Caterpillar 1996 1997-2001 /Ford F600 700 800 900 8000 9000 Cummins 8.3L FD1460 /F650 Super Duty Caterpillar 3126

The DB Electrical Starter is designed for heavy-duty vehicles, providing reliable performance with a 12-volt power supply and a clockwise rotation. With 10 teeth and a power output of 4.8 kW, it ensures efficient engine start-ups, making your driving experience smoother. This starter is compatible with various models from Bluebird, Ford, Kenworth, and more, ensuring versatility for your vehicle needs. Plus, it comes with a one-year warranty, giving you peace of mind about your purchase. Should any issues arise, you can easily reach out for assistance or a replacement.

What We Like
Reliable performance
Wide compatibility
One-year warranty
Efficient engine start-ups
#TOP 7

DB Electrical Starter 410-48160

410-48160
DB Electrical Starter 410-48160 Cover
DB Electrical New DB Electrical Starter 410-48160 Compatible With/Replacement For Hyster 1699116, MAZDA FFSN-18-400, Mitsubishi M0T92581, Voltage 12 Rotation CW Teeth-8 KW 0.9 Starter Type PMGR

The DB Electrical Starter is built for peak performance, ensuring reliable power for your engine's ignition. This means you can count on a quick start every time you need it. The design incorporates sealed housings that prevent residue buildup, keeping your starter clean and efficient. With upgraded copper and silver contacts, this starter enhances performance, making your vehicle run smoothly. Additionally, its durable construction means it can withstand tough conditions, providing you with a long-lasting solution that reduces maintenance hassle.

What We Like
Reliable power delivery
Fast engine ignition
Durable construction
Easy installation
#TOP 8

DB Electrical Starter for Freightliner and International

410-12688
DB Electrical Starter for Freightliner and International Cover
DB Electrical SDR0286 Starter For Freightliner International Caterpillar Cummins DD60 Series N14, C15, C13, ISM, C12, L10, 3406, 3176, M11,Classic, Columbia, FL FLC 110/120 / FLD112 / 120

The DB Electrical Heavy Duty Starter is designed to deliver powerful performance for a range of heavy-duty vehicles. With a 12-volt system and a clockwise rotation, it ensures reliable starts every time. Its 11 teeth and 7.3 kW power rating offer robust starting capability, which is essential for larger trucks and machinery. This starter is compatible with various models from Freightliner and International, providing you with versatile options for replacement. Plus, it comes with a 1-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind in case of any issues post-purchase.

What We Like
Powerful 12-volt performance
Wide compatibility with major brands
1-year warranty for assurance
Built to OEM specifications
#TOP 9

DB Electrical Forklift Starter SDR0059

410-12469
DB Electrical Forklift Starter SDR0059 Cover
DB Electrical SDR0059 Hyster Yale Forklift Starter, 12 Volt, 11 Teeth, Cw, 10096, St96 3.0 3.0L H40XL H50XL H60XL S40XL S45XM S50XM S55XM S60XM S65XM 98 99 00 01

The DB Electrical Forklift Starter is a reliable choice for heavy-duty vehicles, offering a 12-volt power supply and a clockwise rotation with 11 teeth. This starter is designed to replace various OEM models, ensuring compatibility with numerous Hyster and Yale forklift models. It features a straight mounting flange and comes with mounting bolts and a gasket for easy installation. Additionally, a one-year warranty provides peace of mind, assuring users that if any issues arise, they can receive a replacement without hassle. This starter is perfect for ensuring your forklift operates smoothly and efficiently.

What We Like
Easy installation
Compatible with many models
One-year warranty
High reliability
#TOP 10

AJ Automotive Starter Motor E006005017D1

AJ AUTOMOTIVE
E006005017D1 / 006005017D1
AJ Automotive Starter Motor E006005017D1 Cover
Starter Motor E006005017D1 / 006005017D1

The AJ Starter Motor E006005017D1 is a reliable choice for your Mahindra tractors, ensuring top-notch performance with its 100% quality assurance. This starter is designed to fit a wide range of Mahindra models, making it a versatile option for your heavy-duty vehicle needs. Its high-quality construction guarantees durability and reliability, so you can count on it for dependable operation. With superior craftsmanship, this starter not only performs well but also provides peace of mind, knowing you have a premium product that stands out in the market.

What We Like
Quality assurance
Wide compatibility
Durable construction
Reliable performance
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much does it cost to replace a starter on a semi truck?

The cost of replacing a starter on a semi-truck can range from $150 to over $800, depending on the cost of the starter motor itself.

2. What causes a starter to go bad?

A starter can go bad due to normal wear and tear, especially from extended exposure to higher temperatures. Over time, the teeth on the flywheel and pinion gear can wear out, causing them not to interlock properly and resulting in the flywheel not rotating. This can often be heard as a whirring sound when starting the vehicle.

3. What is the difference between a high torque starter and a regular starter?

A high torque starter is specifically designed for vehicles with high compression ratios, typically 16:1 and higher. They are not intended for use in stock or slightly modified street cars, as they can provide more torque than necessary and be more expensive.

4. What are the disadvantages of heavy duty starter motor?

While heavy-duty starter motors offer advantages such as increased durability, reliability, torque, and faster starting, they also have some disadvantages. These include higher cost, increased weight, more complexity, and limited compatibility.

5. How long do semi truck starters last?

Semi truck starters have a life expectancy of approximately seven years or 100,000-150,000 miles. If your starter is approaching this timeframe or if nothing happens when you try to start the engine, it may be a sign that the starter needs to be inspected and replaced.

6. What are signs of bad starters?

Common signs of a bad starter include the engine not turning over when you try to start the vehicle, and unusual noises such as clinking, grinding, or whirring. Ignoring these sounds can eventually lead to damage to the engine flywheel.

7. What are the first signs of a starter going bad?

The first signs of a starter going bad include whirring, grinding, or clicking sounds when trying to start the car, a loud single click without the engine cranking, and the instrument cluster, headlights, and radio working normally but nothing happening when you turn the key.

Editor's Notes

During our heavy duty vehicle starter research, we found 24 heavy duty vehicle starter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,956 customer reviews through our big data system to write the heavy duty vehicle starters list. We found that most customers choose heavy duty vehicle starters with an average price of $236.94.

The heavy duty vehicle starters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of heavy duty vehicle starters, including DB Electrical, AJ AUTOMOTIVE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.