Stens 265-246 OEM Replacement Belt, MTD 954-04033A, ea, 1

What It Is

The Stens 265-246 is a direct OEM replacement drive belt designed for select MTD and Cub Cadet lawn tractors, transferring power from the engine pulley to the transmission. It’s a 3/8-inch by 93.5-inch (A-section) belt, commonly used on 42-inch and 46-inch deck models.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify your mower’s model number (not just deck size) against MTD part 954-04033A or Stens 265-246. This belt fits many MTD, Cub Cadet, and Troy-Bilt tractors with hydrostatic transmissions, typically from the 2000s to early 2010s. Check the belt length (93.5 inches) and width (3/8 inch) with your old belt—variations in deck or pulley wear can affect fit. It’s not for blade drive or zero-turn mowers. Cross-reference with your owner’s manual or OEM parts diagram to confirm.

Key Things to Buy

• Quality: Stens is a reputable aftermarket brand; this belt is made to OEM specs (Kevlar-reinforced) and often outlasts cheaper generic belts. Expect similar lifespan to MTD original.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate—requires removing the deck or accessing the transmission pulley. No special tools, but tensioning can be tricky; check your manual for routing diagrams.
• Common gotchas: Ensure belt routing matches your model—wrong path causes slipping or premature wear. Replace any worn pulleys or idlers at the same time to avoid belt damage.
• Measurement double-check: Measure your old belt’s length end-to-end (not around pulleys). A 93.5-inch belt is exact; if yours is slightly different, confirm compatibility to avoid a return.

Should You Buy It

If you need a reliable, OEM-spec drive belt for an MTD or Cub Cadet lawn tractor and want a proven aftermarket option that matches factory performance, the Stens 265-246 is a smart buy. It’s cost-effective compared to dealer parts, with strong user satisfaction for durability and fit—just verify your model number first.