8TEN Deck Rebuild Kit for Craftsman MTD Troy-Bilt T1000 T1200 Pony Bronco TB42 42-Inch 942-04308 918-06991 954-04060C

What It Is

This deck rebuild kit replaces the critical wear parts (spindles, bearings, pulleys, and hardware) on a 42-inch cutting deck for Craftsman, MTD, and Troy-Bilt lawn tractors, specifically models like the T1000, T1200, Pony, and Bronco. It’s designed for a full deck overhaul, not a single-part fix.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Deck size: Only fits 42-inch (107 cm) decks. Measure your deck width—40- or 46-inch decks won’t work.
• Model numbers: Confirmed fit for Craftsman T1000/T1200, Troy-Bilt Pony/Bronco, and MTD TB42. Check your tractor’s model number (under seat or in manual) against these families.
• OEM cross-references: Replaces part numbers 942-04308, 918-06991, and 954-04060C. If your deck uses different OEM spindles or pulleys, this kit won’t match.
• Physical check: Remove one spindle to verify bearing size and shaft diameter (typically 5/8” or 3/4”). The kit includes three spindle assemblies, belts, and pulleys—confirm your deck has three spindles (most 42” MTD-style do).

Key Things to Know

• Quality: 8TEN is an aftermarket brand. Reviews note bearings are serviceable but may wear faster than OEM MTD parts. Grease fittings are included on spindles—use them.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate. Requires basic tools (socket set, pry bar, torque wrench). Expect 1.5–2 hours if you’re handy; plan 3–4 hours if it’s your first deck rebuild. Watch for stripped hardware from rust.
• Gotcha: The kit may not include the center pulley or idler arm assembly—double-check your deck’s pulley layout. Some users report needing to reuse the original pulleys if the new ones are slightly different thickness.
• Completeness: Includes new belts and hardware, but you may need to buy new blade bolts or washers separately—inspect your old ones.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you have a 42-inch MTD-family tractor with worn spindles (noisy, wobbling, or failing bearings) and want a cost-effective rebuild under $100. Skip it if you prefer OEM parts for longer life, or if your deck needs only one spindle—buying individual parts is cheaper.