8TEN Blade Spindle Deck Kit for Cub Cadet Craftman LTX1042 LTX1040 i1042 42-Inch 918-04516A 918-04512B 918-04516A

What It Is

The 8TEN Blade Spindle Deck Kit is a complete replacement assembly for the cutting deck spindles on select Cub Cadet, Craftsman, and Troy-Bilt lawn tractors. It’s designed for 42-inch decks on models like the LTX1042, LTX1040, and i1042.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify three things:

• Deck size: Only fits 42-inch decks. Measure your deck width to confirm.
• Model number: Works with Cub Cadet LTX1042, LTX1040, i1042, and Craftsman equivalents. Check your mower’s model tag (under seat or on frame).
• OEM part cross-reference: Replaces OEM numbers 918-04516A, 918-04512B, and 918-04516A. Confirm your spindle matches one of these.
• Spindle count: Kits contain two spindles. If your deck has three, you need a different kit.
• Physical check: Measure spindle bolt pattern (center-to-center) and shaft diameter (typically 5/8” or 3/4”). If your existing spindle doesn’t match, this kit won’t bolt up.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: 8TEN is an aftermarket brand. Some users report slightly thinner steel vs. OEM, but it holds up for residential use.
• Installation: Moderate difficulty. Requires removing the deck, unbolting old spindles, and transferring pulleys/bearings. Have a socket set, breaker bar, and penetrating oil ready for rusted bolts.
• Common gotcha: Deck belt routing changes slightly with these spindles. Take a photo of your old setup before removing.
• Bearing life: Pre-greased, but adding a dab of grease to the zerk fittings (if equipped) extends lifespan.

Should You Buy It

If you have a 42-inch Cub Cadet or Craftsman LTX series mower, need to replace worn or noisy spindles, and want a budget-friendly alternative to OEM (which costs 2–3x more), this kit is a solid choice. It’s not for heavy commercial use, but for residential lawns, it’ll get you cutting smoothly again.