942-04308-X Mulching Mower Blades (2-Pack) for 42 inch Deck - Fits for Cub Cadet XT1 LT42, XT2 LX42, RZT-L42, Troy-Bilt Bronco, Pony, Mustang, Craftsman - Replace 942-04308 942-0616 742-0616

What It Is

This 2-pack of mulching mower blades is designed for 42-inch cutting decks on Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman lawn tractors. They replace OEM part numbers 942-04308, 942-0616, and 742-0616, and are intended for mulching—chopping clippings finely to return nutrients to the lawn.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify three things:

• Deck size: Your mower must have a 42-inch deck. Measure the deck width if unsure.
• Model list: Fits Cub Cadet XT1 LT42, XT2 LX42, RZT-L42, Troy-Bilt Bronco, Pony, Mustang, and Craftsman models with 42-inch decks. Check your owner’s manual or current blade part number.
• Blade measurements: Each blade is approximately 21 inches long, 2.5 inches wide, with a 1-inch center hole and a 0.5-inch offset. Measure your old blades to confirm these specs—especially length and hole size—as some 42-inch decks use different blades.
• OEM vs aftermarket: These are OEM Cub Cadet blades, so fit and quality match factory specs. No adapter needed.

Key Things to Know

• Mulching vs. bagging: These blades have a curved, high-lift design for fine clippings. They work best with a mulching plug or kit; using them for bagging may reduce performance.
• Installation: Requires a socket wrench and torque wrench (recommended torque: 70-90 ft-lbs). Use thread locker on blade bolts to prevent loosening. Replace bolts if worn.
• Sharpness: Blades come sharp but may need re-sharpening after 10-15 hours of use on thick grass. Dull blades tear grass, causing brown tips.
• Common gotcha: Ensure the blades are mounted with the cutting edge facing the direction of rotation (usually upward toward the deck). Reversing them will damage the blade and deck.

Should You Buy It

If you own a compatible Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, or Craftsman with a 42-inch deck and want OEM-quality mulching blades at a reasonable price, this 2-pack is a solid choice. It’s ideal for users who prefer mulching over bagging and want hassle-free fitment without measuring adapters. Skip it if you need blades for a different deck size or for heavy-duty side-discharge cutting.