q&p Outdoor Power 918-06979 Spindle Assembly Bracket Replaces MTD Troy-Bilt 618-06979 918-06979 with Mounting Bolt Holes Tapped for Easier Install FITS XT1-LT54 and XT2-LX54 with 54" Deck

What It Is

The q&p Outdoor Power 918-06979 Spindle Assembly Bracket is a replacement spindle housing for 54-inch cutting decks on select Troy-Bilt and MTD lawn tractors. It supports the blade spindle and pulley, and this aftermarket version comes with pre-tapped mounting bolt holes to simplify installation over OEM parts.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Exact fit: Troy-Bilt XT1-LT54 and XT2-LX54 with 54-inch stamped steel deck (model series ending in -54).
• Cross-reference: Replaces OEM part numbers 918-06979 and 618-06979.
• Check your deck: Measure the spindle mounting hole pattern (typically 4 bolts on a 3-inch square). Verify your deck has a 54-inch cutting width stamped on the deck shell.
• Not universal: Will not fit 42-inch, 46-inch, or 50-inch decks. Avoid on XT1-LT42 or XT2-LX46 models.
• Bolt size: The tapped holes accept 5/16-18 bolts (included with some sellers, confirm before ordering).

Key Things to Know

• Pre-tapped holes save time: No need to drill or thread—just bolt on. This is the main advantage over OEM brackets that often arrive unthreaded.
• Cast iron vs. stamped steel: This is a cast iron bracket, more durable than stamped steel but heavier. Expect a slight weight increase over original.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate. Requires removing the deck, blade, pulley, and spindle. Budget 45–60 minutes if you have basic socket and wrench sets.
• Common gotcha: The bearing and shaft are sold separately (not included). You’ll need a new spindle bearing (part 918-06978) and blade shaft unless reusing old parts.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you own a Troy-Bilt XT1-LT54 or XT2-LX54 with a 54-inch deck and need a direct-fit, durable replacement spindle bracket. The pre-tapped holes make installation easier than OEM, and the cast iron construction outlasts stamped versions. Avoid if your deck model doesn’t end in -54 or if you need a complete spindle assembly with bearings included.