46 inch Mower Deck Rebuild Kit for Craftsman MTD Cub Cadet LTX1045 LTX1046 LT2000 LT2200 LT2500 Includes 2 Spindle 918-04865 918-04865A 918-04636, 2 Idler 756-04129, 1 Be lt 954-04219
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🛒 See Price on AmazonWhat It Is
This is a complete rebuild kit for a 46-inch mower deck, designed to replace worn spindles, idler pulleys, and the drive belt on Craftsman, MTD, and Cub Cadet lawn tractors. It fits models like the LTX1045, LTX1046, LT2000, LT2200, and LT2500, and is aimed at restoring deck performance when blades wobble, pulleys seize, or the belt slips.
Fitment & Compatibility
Before buying, confirm your deck is exactly 46 inches wide (measured blade tip to blade tip). This kit is for stamped-steel decks on MTD-built tractors (Craftsman, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man) from the mid-2000s onward. Check your spindle part number: this replaces OEM 918-04865, 918-04865A, and 918-04636. Idler pulleys replace 756-04129, and the belt is 954-04219. Measure your existing belt length (typically 94.5 inches for 46" decks) to be safe. Not compatible with fabricated decks or zero-turn mowers.
Key Things to Know
- Quality: Aftermarket spindles and pulleys are decent for the price, but the belt may be thinner than OEM—expect 2-3 seasons of use instead of 4-5.
- Installation difficulty: Moderate. You’ll need a socket set, jack stands, and a spring puller for the idler tensioner. Budget 1.5-2 hours.
- Common gotcha: The spindle bolts are reverse-thread on some models—double-check before cranking. Also, the included grease fittings are small; use a needle-style grease gun for proper lubrication.
- Missing hardware: The kit doesn’t include spindle bolts or lock washers. Reuse old ones if clean, or buy new Grade 8 bolts separately.
Should You Buy It
This kit is a solid value if you’re rebuilding a 46-inch deck on a budget and don’t mind aftermarket parts. It’s best for DIY homeowners with a single tractor who want to replace everything at once rather than piecemeal. Avoid if you need OEM durability for heavy commercial use—the belt and bearings won’t hold up as long.
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