954-04249A Lower Drive Belt Replaces 754-04249, 754-04249A, 954-04249, 954-04249A Drive Belt, Fits MTD, Troy-Bilt Pony Tuffy, Craftsman T100 T110 T1000 LT1500 LT2000 Lawn Mowers (5/8" x 71")

What It Is

The 954-04249A is a lower drive belt that transfers power from the engine pulley to the mower deck and transmission on select MTD, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman lawn tractors. It’s designed for machines with a 5/8-inch width and 71-inch length, commonly used on 42-inch and 46-inch deck models.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify your mower’s model number (not just the brand). This belt replaces OEM part numbers 754-04249, 754-04249A, 954-04249, and 954-04249A. It fits Troy-Bilt Pony and Tuffy, Craftsman T100, T110, T1000, LT1500, and LT2000 series, plus many MTD tractors. Check your deck size – it’s typically for 42-inch or 46-inch decks, but measure your old belt’s width (must be 5/8”) and length (71 inches). Cross-reference with your owner’s manual or the belt routing diagram under the hood. Aftermarket belts may vary slightly in material durability; OEM-grade belts (like this one) are preferred for consistent fit.

Key Things to Buy

• Quality: Made by Troy-Bilt (OEM-equivalent), not a generic knockoff. Users report good durability and exact fit on listed models.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate – requires removing the deck or accessing belt tensioner pulleys. A belt routing diagram is essential; take a photo before removal.
• Common gotchas: Deck size mismatch is the #1 issue – double-check your deck’s stamped model number. Also, verify your mower uses a single lower drive belt (not a dual-belt system).
• Lubrication: Apply a light spray of silicone lubricant to the belt during installation to reduce initial squeaking.

Should You Buy It

Yes, if you need a direct replacement for the listed OEM belts on a Troy-Bilt, MTD, or Craftsman tractor with a 42–46-inch deck. It’s a solid, well-reviewed part at a fair price for DIY repairs. Skip it if your belt measures differently (width or length) or if your mower uses a different belt system.