Terre Products, 21" Lawn Mower Blade - Compatible with Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet | Replaces 742-0741A, 942-0741A | OEM Replacement Mulching Blade | Bow Tie Center Hole

What It Is

This is a 21-inch mulching blade with a bow tie center hole, designed to replace OEM blades on compatible Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, and Cub Cadet mowers. It’s intended for standard residential lawn mowing and grass recycling (fine clippings returned to lawn).

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm three things:

• Deck size: Your mower deck must be 21 inches (measured cutting width, not blade length).
• Center hole shape: This blade uses a bow tie (double-D) hole, not a round or star pattern. Check your current blade’s hole shape.
• OEM part numbers: Replaces 742-0741A and 942-0741A. If your mower’s OEM blade is a different number (e.g., 742-0742A), it likely won’t fit. Cross-check your model number on Terre Products’ compatibility list or your mower’s manual.

Common compatible models include many Craftsman push mowers (e.g., 247 series), Troy-Bilt TB230/TB240, and Cub Cadet SC series. Not for zero-turn or riding mowers.

Key Things to Know

• Quality vs OEM: Made from stamped steel, not hardened alloy. Expect slightly shorter sharpness life compared to factory blades, but acceptable for average home use.
• Installation difficulty: Easy if you have a socket wrench and can lift the mower safely. Use a blade removal tool (or wedge wood block) to prevent spinning. Torque to 35-45 ft-lbs.
• Common gotcha: The bow tie hole can be tricky to align on some spindles—rotate the blade until it seats fully flat. Also, this is a mulching blade, not a lift blade; it won’t bag or side-discharge as efficiently.
• Balance: Check blade balance after install (use a blade balancer or nail in wall). Unbalanced blades cause vibration and bearing wear.

Should You Buy It

If you have a 21-inch Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, or Cub Cadet push mower that uses the 742-0741A/942-0741A pattern, and you want a budget-friendly mulching blade for regular lawn maintenance, this is a solid choice. It’s not for heavy-duty commercial use or for mowers needing a high-lift bagging blade, but for most homeowners, it’s a reliable, affordable replacement.