42 inch Deck Lawn Mower Blade, 942-04308-X, 942-04308 Mulching Blades with 6 Point Star, Replace Number for Troy Bilt and Cub Cade Riding Mowers, 942-04126, 942-0616, 742-04126, 742-0616

What It Is

This is a set of 42-inch mulching blades designed for Troy-Bilt and Cub Cadet riding mowers. They use a 6-point star center hole for secure mounting and are intended to cut grass into fine clippings that decompose quickly, eliminating the need for bagging.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Deck size: Only fits 42-inch cutting decks. Measure your deck from blade tip to blade tip to confirm.
• OEM numbers: Replaces 942-04308, 942-04126, 942-0616, 742-04126, and 742-0616. Check your current blade’s part number.
• Brand fit: Direct fit for many Troy-Bilt and Cub Cadet riding mowers with a 6-point star spindle. Not for push mowers or zero-turn models unless specified.
• Measurements: Blade length is 21 inches (each), center hole is 6-point star (approx. 1.25” across). Verify your spindle matches the star pattern—some older decks use a round hole with a keyway.
• Aftermarket note: These are aftermarket blades, not OEM. Quality is generally good, but tolerances may vary slightly from factory blades.

Key Things to Know

• Mulching performance: The curved design and extra cutting edges produce finer clippings than standard blades, but they work best when the deck is clean and grass is dry. Wet or tall grass may cause clogging.
• Installation: Requires a 15/16” or 1” socket (check your spindle nut size). Torque to 70-90 ft-lbs. Use thread locker if specified by your mower manual.
• Common gotcha: The 6-point star can be tight on some spindles. If it doesn’t slide on easily, check for burrs or debris. Never force it—this can damage the spindle.
• Balance: Always balance new blades before installing. An unbalanced blade causes vibration, poor cut quality, and can damage the spindle bearings.

Should You Buy It

This is a solid budget-friendly option for Troy-Bilt or Cub Cadet owners with a 42-inch deck who want to switch to mulching without buying OEM blades. It’s best for routine lawn maintenance on dry, manageable grass. If you have a different deck size or need a standard lift blade for bagging, look elsewhere.