MTD Genuine Parts 22-Inch Replacement Mulching Blade

What It Is

This is an OEM mulching blade designed for select MTD-branded 22-inch walk-behind mowers. It chops clippings into fine bits that settle into the lawn, eliminating the need for bagging in most conditions.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Deck size: Only for 22-inch cutting decks. Do not use on 21-inch or 20-inch decks.
• OEM vs aftermarket: This is a genuine MTD part (not a universal or third-party blade). It ensures proper balance, hole alignment, and lift profile.
• Measurements needed before buying:
  • Center hole diameter: Must be 1 inch (most common for MTD).
  • Blade length: Exactly 22 inches tip-to-tip.
  • Blade thickness: Typically 0.125 inches.
  • Mounting pattern: Single center hole with two offset bolt holes (check your spindle for a 5-point star or standard 4-point pattern).
• Model fit: Fits many MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Yard-Man 22-inch models. Verify your mower’s model number against MTD’s OEM part number (usually 742-0430 or similar). Cross-reference on MTD’s site or call their support with your model/serial.
• Common gotcha: Some 22-inch decks use a different blade offset or a longer center hole. Measure your old blade’s center hole diameter and thickness before ordering.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: OEM steel with a durable coating. Holds an edge longer than most generic blades.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate. You’ll need a socket wrench (usually 5/8-inch or 3/4-inch) and a blade removal tool or block of wood to lock the blade. Torque to 40-50 ft-lbs.
• Gotcha: Mulching blades are not for bagging or side-discharge use. They work best with the mulching plug installed. If you switch between modes, consider a combo blade instead.
• Balance: Factory-balanced, but check with a blade balancer after installation. An unbalanced blade causes vibration and spindle wear.
• Lift: The curved wing design lifts clippings for recutting. On tall, wet grass, you may need to slow your pace.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you have a 22-inch MTD-brand mower, want OEM fit and durability, and primarily mulch (not bag or side-discharge). It’s a reliable, direct replacement that won’t require shimming or hole enlarging. Avoid if you need a universal blade for a different deck size or if you frequently switch between discharge modes.