42-Inch Mulch Cover Kit for Husqvarna, Craftsman, John Deere, Poulan, AYP Lawn Tractor Deck with Mounting Hardware Replaces 954040501 960710005 583207101 136420

What It Is

This 42-inch mulch cover kit replaces the factory discharge chute on Husqvarna, Craftsman, John Deere, Poulan, and AYP lawn tractor decks. It lets you convert a side-discharge mower to mulching, chopping clippings fine so they decompose back into the lawn.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm your deck size is exactly 42 inches (measured blade tip to blade tip). This kit fits most Husqvarna, Craftsman, John Deere, Poulan, and AYP models with a 42-inch stamped steel deck—but not fabricated decks. Check your OEM part number against the replacements listed: 954040501, 960710005, 583207101, or 136420. The kit includes mounting hardware (bolts, nuts, washers), so you don’t need extra fasteners. Measure the distance between the two mounting holes on your deck’s discharge opening—this cover uses a standard 5-inch spacing. It will not fit 46-inch or 54-inch decks.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: The plastic is durable but can crack if overtightened—hand-tighten bolts only, then snug a quarter turn.
• Installation: Easy 10-minute job—remove the discharge chute, line up the cover, and bolt it on. No special tools needed.
• Gotcha: This is a mulch cover only—it does not include a mulching blade set. For best results, pair with gator-style or high-lift mulching blades.
• Fitment: Works with both manual and electric PTO decks, but double-check that your deck’s discharge opening is unobstructed (no welded-on brackets).

Should You Buy It

If you mow a flat, dry lawn and want to leave clippings as fertilizer, this is a cheap, easy upgrade. Skip it if you often mow wet, tall grass—mulching in those conditions clogs quickly without a dedicated blade kit. For $24.99, it’s a solid value for owners of compatible 42-inch decks.