CUB CADET 742P05086 18.611" High Lift Blade S-Shaped Hole Enduro XT1-GT54 XT2-ST54 Ultima ZT1-54 ZT2-54 6-Pack

What It Is

The CUB CADET 742P05086 is a set of six OEM high-lift mower blades designed for 54-inch cutting decks on select Cub Cadet XT, GT, and Ultima ZT series tractors and zero-turn mowers. The high-lift profile increases airflow for better grass discharge and bagging performance in thick or wet grass.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm your mower’s deck size is exactly 54 inches. This blade fits Cub Cadet models including XT1-GT54, XT2-ST54, Ultima ZT1-54, and ZT2-54. The blade has an S-shaped center hole (not a standard star or oval) — measure your spindle’s hole shape to verify. Blade length is 18.611 inches, width 2.5 inches, and thickness 0.1875 inches. These are OEM Cub Cadet parts, so aftermarket spindles or decks may require different blades. Check your owner’s manual or current blade part number to confirm cross-reference (742P05086 replaces older 742P05086A).

Key Things to Know

• Installation: Use a torque wrench — tighten blade bolts to 70–90 ft-lbs. Over-tightening can strip spindles; under-tightening risks blade detachment.
• Lift & performance: High-lift blades create more suction, which improves bagging but increases engine load and wear on belts/blades in dry, dusty conditions.
• Sharpening: These are hardened steel; sharpen with a file or grinder, but don’t thin the edge beyond factory angle. Replace if bent or nicked deeply.
• Storage: Buy a 6-pack only if you have multiple mowers or plan to swap blades seasonally. Unused blades should be stored dry to prevent rust.

Should You Buy It

If you own a compatible 54-inch Cub Cadet and need factory-matched high-lift blades for superior bagging or discharge in heavy grass, this set is a direct, reliable choice. At $171.72 for six blades, it’s priced for users who want OEM quality and avoid aftermarket fitment guesswork. However, if you mow mostly dry, short grass, standard-lift blades may be cheaper and easier on the machine.