Maxpower 561532B 2-Blade Mulching Set for 42-Inch Cut MTD/Cub Cadet/Troy-Bilt, 742-0616A and Many Others, Replaces OEM #'s 742-04126, 742-0616, 942-0616

What It Is

This is a 2-blade mulching set for 42-inch cut riding mowers, designed to replace OEM blades on MTD, Cub Cadet, and Troy-Bilt models. It’s for mulching grass clippings into fine particles that decompose quickly, reducing bagging needs.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Deck size: Must be exactly 42 inches – measure your mower’s cutting deck width (not the blade length). Fits most MTD-built 42-inch decks.
• Brands: Works with Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, MTD, Yard-Man, Yard Machines, Bolens, and others using OEM #’s 742-04126, 742-0616, 942-0616.
• OEM cross-reference: Replaces 742-0616A, but also fits many older models. Check your current blade part number against the list in the product description.
• Measurements: Each blade is 20.5 inches long, 2.5 inches wide, with a 7-point star center hole and 0.25-inch diameter. Verify your spindle pattern matches – most MTD 42-inch decks use this star pattern.
• What to check: Measure your existing blade length (tip to tip) and center hole shape. If it’s not a 7-point star or length differs, this set won’t fit.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: Made from heat-treated steel, thicker than many OEM blades – holds edge longer but adds slight weight. Rated 4.6/5 from 4,066 reviews; common praise is durability and sharpness out of box.
• Installation: Easy – remove old blades, clean spindle, install new ones with included hardware (washers and bolts). Torque to 70-90 ft-lbs. Use a blade removal tool or block wood to prevent spinning.
• Gotchas: Blades are not universal – will not fit 46-inch or 54-inch decks. Some users report needing to slightly enlarge center hole on older spindles (rare, but check fit before tightening).
• Mulching performance: Works best with a mulching plug installed (if your deck has one). For side-discharge use, these blades still cut well but won’t mulch as finely.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you have a 42-inch MTD/Cub Cadet/Troy-Bilt riding mower and want an affordable, high-rated mulching blade set that matches OEM specs. It’s a solid upgrade for better mulching without paying OEM prices. Avoid if your deck size differs or your spindle uses a different center hole pattern.