MTD Genuine Parts (942-0741A) Replacement Part Mulching Blade-21-Inch Cutting Decks Fits Various MTD, CRAFTSMAN, Troy-Bilt, and Other Top Models

What It Is

This is an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) mulching blade from MTD Genuine Parts (part number 942-0741A) designed for 21-inch cutting decks. It replaces the factory blade on many MTD, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, and other compatible walk-behind mowers, specifically for mulching grass clippings into fine particles that decompose quickly.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm three things:

• Deck size: Works only with 21-inch cutting decks. Measure your deck width if unsure.
• Blade measurements: Center hole diameter is 1-inch (round). Overall length is 21 inches (tip to tip). Width is 2.5 inches. Thickness is 0.1875 inches (3/16-inch). Verify these against your current blade.
• Model fit: Fits hundreds of models under MTD, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, Yard Machines, Yard-Man, Bolens, Cub Cadet, Huskee, and Murray. Check your mower’s model number (found under seat or on frame) against MTD’s compatibility list. This blade is not for universal fit—it matches specific MTD-style blade mounts with a single center hole.

If your mower uses a different hole shape (star, oblong, or offset) or a different deck size, this blade won’t work.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: OEM part means exact fit and balanced out of the box. No need to file or modify. Steel is hardened and coated for rust resistance.
• Installation: Easy with a socket wrench and blade removal tool (or block of wood to jam blade). Torque to 35-45 ft-lbs (check your mower manual). The blade is sharp—wear gloves.
• Common gotcha: This is a mulching blade, not a standard lift blade. It has a curved, high-lift design to recut clippings. If you bag or side-discharge, it works but won’t throw clippings as far as a dedicated bagging blade.
• Performance: Best for frequent mowing (don’t let grass get too tall) and dry grass. Wet or thick grass may clog.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you have a 21-inch MTD-family mower and want OEM-quality mulching performance without guesswork. It’s a direct, drop-in replacement that’s well-reviewed for durability and cut quality. Skip it if your deck size is different, your blade mount is non-standard, or you primarily bag or discharge—you’ll want a dedicated blade for that.