21 inch Mulching Blades, Lawn Mower Blade Replace Number for Troy Bilt Cub Cade, Craftsman MTD 942-0741A 742-0741 742-0741A 942-0741, Center Hole Bow Tie Shape (1 Pcs)

What It Is

This is a 21-inch mulching blade designed to replace OEM numbers 942-0741A, 742-0741, 742-0741A, and 942-0741 for Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Craftsman, and MTD lawn tractors. It uses a bow-tie center hole and is intended for mulching grass clippings into fine particles for lawn feeding.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, check three things:

• Deck size: Your mower must have a 21-inch cutting deck. Measure from blade tip to tip (not the deck housing).
• Center hole: Bow-tie shape fits MTD-style spindles. Not compatible with round or star-shaped holes.
• OEM cross-reference: Works as a direct replacement for 942-0741A, 742-0741, 742-0741A, 942-0741. Fits many Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Craftsman, and MTD tractors with those part numbers.
• Measure your old blade: Confirm length (21 inches), center hole shape, and thickness (typically 0.25 inches). This blade is aftermarket, not OEM.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: 4.6/5 stars from 177 reviews—users report sharp edges and good durability for the price.
• Installation: Easy if you have a socket wrench and blade removal tool. Torque to 30–40 ft-lbs. Use thread locker if your spindle bolts are loose.
• Gotcha: This is a single blade (1 piece). Some decks require two blades—check your deck’s blade count before ordering.
• Mulching vs. bagging: Designed for mulching only. Will not perform well with bagging or side-discharge setups.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you need a budget-friendly, direct-fit replacement for a 21-inch MTD-style mulching deck and you’re comfortable confirming fitment via your old blade’s part number. Skip it if you need a premium OEM blade, a different center hole shape, or a two-blade set.