DVPARTS 3013-6010 Tractor Driveline Compatible With Universal Products

What It Is

This is a tractor driveline assembly (PTO shaft) designed to transfer power from the engine to the mower deck. It’s intended for use with Universal Products (UP) compatible lawn tractors, typically on 42-inch to 54-inch cutting decks.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify these three things:

• Deck Size & Type: This driveline fits most Universal Products decks (e.g., UP-42, UP-48, UP-54) but not all. Measure your existing shaft’s collapsed length and extended length—this unit is roughly 30 inches collapsed and 45 inches extended. If your deck requires a longer or shorter stroke, it won’t work.
• Tractor Brand: Universal Products shafts are used on many brands (Cub Cadet, MTD, Troy-Bilt, Huskee, etc.) but cross-referencing is critical. Check your tractor’s OEM part number—this replaces 3013-6010, but OEM numbers like 918-04138 or 918-04138A may also match. Not all tractors with UP decks use this exact shaft.
• Yoke & Spline: The shaft has a 5/8-inch bore with a 1-inch diameter spline on both ends. If your tractor or deck uses a different yoke size (e.g., 3/4-inch or 7/8-inch), you’ll need adapters or a different model.

Key Things to Know

• Quality Concerns: At 3.4 stars from only 6 reviews, this is a low-confidence purchase. Several reports of premature wear on the plastic shield and loose fittings after a few seasons. If you mow rough terrain or heavy grass, expect shorter lifespan than OEM.
• Installation Difficulty: Moderate. You’ll need to remove the old shaft, slide this one into place, and secure with cotter pins. No special tools required, but alignment can be tricky—have a helper to hold the deck.
• Common Gotcha: The plastic shield may rattle or crack quickly. Some users replace it with a solid metal guard. Also, check that the shear pin holes align perfectly—if not, you may need to drill new ones, which voids any warranty.
• Warranty: DVPARTS offers a 30-day return window, but no extended warranty. Test fit immediately; don’t assume it’s plug-and-play.

Should You Buy It

This is a budget option for a DIYer who needs a quick replacement and is willing to accept possible fitment tweaks or shorter lifespan. If you want reliability, stick with an OEM shaft (around $120–$150) or a higher-rated aftermarket brand. Not recommended for commercial use or if your tractor has an odd deck geometry.