Electric PTO Clutch for Cub Cadet RZT 42 Troy-Bilt Colt XP Replacement Part Number 717-04376 717-04376A 917-04376 917-04376A

What It Is

This is an electric PTO (Power Take-Off) clutch that engages and disengages the mower blades on your riding lawn mower. It’s designed for Cub Cadet RZT 42 and Troy-Bilt Colt XP models, typically used for residential mowing on flat to moderate terrain.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify these three things:

• Model & Deck Size: Fits Cub Cadet RZT 42 (42-inch deck) and Troy-Bilt Colt XP (46-inch deck). Double-check your mower’s model number—common matches include RZT 42, RZT 50, and Colt XP.
• OEM Part Numbers: Cross-reference with OEM numbers 717-04376, 717-04376A, 917-04376, or 917-04376A. This aftermarket clutch replaces all four.
• Physical Measurements: The clutch has a 1-inch bore shaft, 3-bolt mounting pattern (holes spaced 2.75 inches apart), and overall diameter of 4.5 inches. Measure your old clutch to confirm fit—especially shaft diameter and bolt spacing. Not compatible with zero-turn mowers from other brands (e.g., John Deere, Husqvarna) without adapter kits.

Key Things to Know

• Quality & Durability: Aftermarket unit with solid reviews (4.7/5). Uses sealed bearings and electromagnetic coil—comparable to OEM but at roughly half the cost. Expect 2–4 seasons of heavy use.
• Installation Difficulty: Moderate. Requires basic tools (socket set, multimeter for electrical test). You’ll need to remove the belt, unbolt the old clutch, and disconnect the wiring harness. Allow 1–2 hours.
• Common Gotchas:
  • The air gap between the clutch and rotor must be set to 0.010–0.020 inches after installation. Use a feeler gauge.
  • Check the wiring connector—some aftermarket clutches use a different plug than OEM. You may need to splice or use an adapter (not included).
  • The clutch pulley must spin freely by hand before mounting. If it’s stiff, return immediately.

Should You Buy It

Yes, if you have a Cub Cadet RZT 42 or Troy-Bilt Colt XP and want a reliable, budget-friendly replacement that matches OEM specs. It’s a good fit for DIYers with moderate mechanical skills. Skip it if you need a genuine OEM part for warranty reasons or if your mower uses a different shaft size or bolt pattern.