LTX 1045 Deck Engagement Cable for Cub Cadet LTX 1040 LTX 1042 LTX 1045 LTX 1046 Troy Bilt TB2246 Riding Lawn Mower Replace 946-04618C Pto Cable

What It Is

This is a replacement PTO (power take-off) cable that engages and disengages the blade deck on Cub Cadet LTX 1040, 1042, 1045, 1046, and Troy Bilt TB2246 riding mowers. It connects the dash engagement lever to the deck clutch, letting you start/stop the blades from the seat.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Exact OEM replacement for Cub Cadet part number 946-04618C (also listed as 946-04618, 946-04618A).
• Fits these models only: Cub Cadet LTX 1040, LTX 1042, LTX 1045, LTX 1046 (with 42" or 46" deck), and Troy Bilt TB2246.
• Not universal – will not fit other LTX variants (e.g., LTX 1040 with 38" deck) or non-Cub/Troy models.
• Before buying: Measure your old cable’s overall length (from end to end) – should be approx. 62–64 inches. Also verify your deck size (check model tag under seat or on deck). If you have a 50" or 54" deck, this cable is too short.
• OEM vs aftermarket: This is a genuine Cub Cadet part, not a generic. Expect tight fit and no adapter needed.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: Heavy-duty steel cable with plastic sheath – holds up well to normal use. No rust issues reported if kept greased.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate (1–2 hours). Requires removing the dash panel, routing cable along the frame, and adjusting the clutch lever. A C-clip or cotter pin tool helps.
• Common gotchas:
  • The cable end at the clutch may need a slight bend to hook correctly – use pliers, but don’t kink it.
  • If your old cable broke near the dash, check the lever pivot for wear – a worn lever can snap a new cable quickly.
  • Adjust the cable so the clutch engages fully (blade stops spinning when disengaged) – under-tightening causes blade drag.
• Pro tip: Lubricate the cable with WD-40 or cable lube before installation to reduce friction.

Should You Buy It

If you need a direct, reliable replacement for the PTO cable on a Cub Cadet LTX 1040–1046 or Troy Bilt TB2246 with a 42" or 46" deck, this is the correct part at a good price. It’s not for other brands or deck sizes, but for these specific mowers, it’s a solid, easy-to-find fix.