I have a 5-HP snow blower for sale, it is an older model and I have used it in the past and I have started it up with the rope pully, it does not have an eclectic starter but it has provisions for one. I am 96 years old and it is geting difficult for me to pull the rope starter at my age now. You may want to have it looked at by a repair shop if you wish to put an electric starter in, but if you are young enough you may be able to start it. It has done a good job for me when it is running. Take a look at it if you wish most anytime.