954-05021 42 inch Mower Deck Belt (1/2" x 100") for MTD Cub Cadet XT1-LT42 XT2-LX42 Lawn Mower with 42" Deck Replaces 954-05021A 754-05021 754-05021A

What It Is

This is a 42-inch mower deck belt (1/2" wide x 100" long) that drives the blades on MTD/Cub Cadet XT1-LT42 and XT2-LX42 lawn tractors with a 42" stamped deck. It’s the primary belt connecting the engine pulley to the blade spindles.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm your mower has a 42-inch deck and is an MTD-built model (Cub Cadet XT1-LT42, XT2-LX42, or similar). Measure your existing belt length end-to-end—must be exactly 100 inches. Check the belt width: 1/2 inch (not 3/8" or 5/8"). This belt replaces OEM part numbers 954-05021A, 754-05021, and 754-05021A. It will NOT fit 46" or 50" decks. Verify your deck model number (stamped on deck housing) if unsure.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: Aftermarket belt at $13.99—expect shorter lifespan than OEM (1-2 seasons vs 2-3). Check for fraying after heavy use.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate. You’ll need to remove the deck or work underneath. Route belt exactly per the diagram on your deck (snake around idler pulleys and spindles).
• Common gotchas: The belt may be slightly stiff out of the box; flex it before installing. Ensure belt tension is correct—too loose causes slipping, too tight wears pulleys. If your deck has a “twist” belt path, double-check routing.
• No warranty or support: Budget aftermarket part—no Cub Cadet warranty. Measure twice, buy once.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you need a quick, low-cost replacement for a 42" Cub Cadet deck belt and are comfortable with basic DIY installation. Skip it if you want OEM durability or have a different deck size. It’s a solid budget stopgap for light-to-moderate mowing.