942-04308-X Mower Blades Fit for Cub Cad et Troy Bilt MTD Craftsman 42" Deck, 742-0616A Gator Mulching Blades Fit for 42" Riding Tractor Zero Turn Mower, 2 Pack

What It Is

This is a 2-pack of Gator-style mulching blades (model 942-04308-X) designed for 42-inch cutting decks on riding tractors and zero-turn mowers from Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, MTD, and Craftsman. They replace OEM part 742-0616A and are intended for mulching grass clippings into fine particles that decompose quickly, eliminating the need for bagging.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm your deck measures exactly 42 inches from blade tip to blade tip. These blades fit most MTD-built 42-inch decks on Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and some Yard Machines models (2000s–present). Check your current blade’s part number: if it’s 742-0616A, 742-0616, or 942-04308, these are direct replacements. Also verify the center hole is 5/8-inch (standard for these brands) and the blade length is 20.5 inches (center hole to tip). Measure your existing blade—if it’s longer or has a different hole shape, these won’t fit. Avoid using on non-MTD decks (e.g., John Deere, Husqvarna).

Key Things to Know

• Mulching performance: The Gator-style serrated edge and wingtips create fine clippings, but they work best with a mulching plug or kit installed. Without it, clippings may clump in wet grass.
• Installation difficulty: Easy for DIYers—just a socket wrench and torque wrench (recommended 70–90 ft-lbs). Ensure blades are oriented with the wingtips pointing upward toward the deck.
• Common gotchas: These blades are thicker than OEM standard blades, so they may slightly reduce lift and require more engine power. They also wear faster on sandy or rocky soil—check for dullness every 10–15 hours.
• Balance: Always balance new blades before installing; an unbalanced set causes vibration and deck damage.

Should You Buy It

If you own a 42-inch MTD-built tractor or zero-turn and want clean mulching without bagging, this is a solid, affordable upgrade. They’re ideal for homeowners with average-sized lawns (under 2 acres) who mow regularly and prefer fine clippings over side discharge. Avoid them if you need standard lift blades for bagging or have a non-MTD deck.