The Hitachi starter on my early 80s MF 205-4 (aka Hinomoto E18D) went out rather spectacularly (lots of white smoke!). Upon disassembly, I discovered that although the armature looked good, the field coils were definitely cooked. I began to hunt for a replacement.The local MF dealer was very helpful, but only turned up an official MF part (no third party options) which was priced at $1200. Response to email requests for parts was not productive. Quotes to rebuild the starter (including rewinding the field coils) ranged from $500 to $900. Searching the internet turned up Hitachi starters at JEGS.COM. Fortunately, they had posted pictures of this product on their web site, and the pics looked identical to the part that I needed. There were two potential issues; it was impossible to determine the size of the starter from its picture, and these starters were sold as 'racing' starters for Chevy pickup trucks! A call to their 800 number got me transferred to one of their retail stores, where a helpful assistant unpacked a starter from its box and took some measurements for me. They all appeared to be the same as my unit. I took the plunge and ordered the starter. It arrived next day. The motor/solenoid assembly is identical to the original, but the mount, as supplied, is not. It did not take long to transfer the mount from my old starter (which necessitated the disassembly of both starters to gain access to the pesky third mounting bolt). The new unit is now installed on my tractor and works like a charm! Jegs advertise two 'mini' Hitachi starters on their web-site at WWW.JEGS.COM Part number 555-10021 ($178.99) is a standard replacement starter. Part Number 555-10022 ($199.99) is a heavy duty version (same bolt patterns) which is what I purchased. Info accurate as of August 2004. I am not affiliated with Jegs in any way except as a customer. I hope this helps other MF 205 owners who find themselves in the same predicament. Tim
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