954-05040 Kevlar Upper Drive Belt for MTD, Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, Cub Cadet Lawn Tractors 5/8" x35-1/4- Replaces 754-05040, 954-0241, 954-0241A, 754-0241, 754-0241A

What It Is

This is a Kevlar-reinforced upper drive belt for lawn tractors, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the transmission or deck drive system. It’s designed for MTD, Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and Cub Cadet models with a 5/8" width and 35-1/4" effective length.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify these three things:

1. Model number – Confirm your tractor’s model number (not just brand) against the OEM part numbers listed: 954-05040, 754-05040, 954-0241, 954-0241A, 754-0241, 754-0241A. These are common on 42" and 46" deck tractors from the 2000s–2010s.
2. Belt dimensions – Measure your old belt: must be exactly 5/8" wide and 35-1/4" long (outside circumference). A 1/4" difference can cause slipping or premature wear.
3. Deck size vs. drive belt – This is the upper drive belt, not the deck belt. If you’re replacing a deck belt, this is the wrong part. Check if your tractor uses a separate belt for the mower deck (most do).

This is an aftermarket replacement – not OEM, but matches the specs. Works on most MTD-built tractors with a single-cylinder engine and a manual or hydrostatic transmission.

Key Things to Know

• Kevlar construction – More durable than standard rubber belts; resists stretching and heat. Good for heavy use or rough terrain.
• Installation difficulty – Moderate. You’ll need to remove the mower deck and possibly the drive pulley cover. Have a socket set and a belt routing diagram handy (often printed on the deck or in the manual).
• Common gotcha – The belt may feel slightly tight when first installed. It will seat after a few minutes of operation. If it squeals, check pulley alignment and tensioner function.
• Not for zero-turn mowers – This is for lawn tractors with a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. Zero-turn belts are longer and wider.

Should You Buy It

If you need a reliable, budget-friendly replacement for a common MTD/Craftsman/Cub Cadet upper drive belt, this is a solid choice. The Kevlar construction adds longevity, and the price is fair. Skip it if you need an OEM belt for warranty reasons or if your tractor uses a different belt length/width. Double-check your model number and belt measurements before ordering.