Rotary 2 Hi Lift Blades for Craftsman 127842, 138497, 38" Deck

What It Is

These are aftermarket high-lift rotary blades designed for 38-inch cutting decks on specific Craftsman lawn tractors. The lifted wing profile increases airflow for better grass discharge and bagging performance, ideal for mulching or catching clippings in medium-to-heavy mowing conditions.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Deck size: 38 inches (three-blade set).
• OEM cross-reference: Replaces Craftsman part numbers 127842 and 138497.
• Blade dimensions: Each blade is approximately 16.5 inches long, 2.5 inches wide, with a 0.25-inch thickness and a 1-inch center hole (star or round pattern – verify your spindle).
• What to check before buying: Measure your current blade length and center hole shape (star vs. round). Confirm your mower deck is exactly 38 inches and uses a three-blade configuration. These will not fit 42-inch or 46-inch decks. Also verify spindle bolt size – most Craftsman use 5/8-inch, but some older models may differ.

Key Things to Know

• Installation: Moderate difficulty – you’ll need a socket wrench, torque wrench (recommended 70-90 ft-lbs), and thread locker. Jack the mower safely, block the blades, and replace one at a time.
• Lift performance: High-lift design creates strong suction, improving bagging and side discharge. However, it increases engine load and may not be ideal for low-horsepower tractors (under 15 HP) on tall, wet grass.
• Durability: Heat-treated steel holds an edge decently but will dull faster than OEM blades if you hit rocks or roots. Expect to sharpen or replace after 25-30 hours of use.
• Balance: Aftermarket blades sometimes need balancing before install. Use a simple blade balancer to avoid vibration and spindle wear.

Should You Buy It

If you own a Craftsman tractor with a 38-inch deck (models like LT1000, LT1500, or similar) and want improved clipping lift for bagging or mulching, this is a solid upgrade at a fair price. Avoid if your deck is not exactly 38 inches or if you mow very rough terrain – the added lift can accelerate blade damage.