Ariens / Gravely Lawn Mower 42" Mulch Kit Part# 71513900 Fits ZT-X and IKON X 42" Deck Review

Name: Ariens / Gravely Lawn Mower 42" Mulch Kit Part# 71513900 Fits ZT-X and IKON X 42" Deck
Brand: Ariens
Price: 205.95 USD
Availability: InStock

By the Mowers.Cloud editorial team · How we research & rate · Updated June 2026

★★★★½ 3.9/5 (36 reviews)

$205.95

Brand: Ariens

Ariens / Gravely Lawn Mower 42" Mulch Kit Part# 71513900 Fits ZT-X and IKON X 42" Deck

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Overview

The Ariens/Gravely 42" Mulch Kit (Part# 71513900) isn’t a mower itself—it’s a precision-engineered accessory designed to convert your ZT-X or IKON X 42" deck from side-discharge or bagging to a high-performance mulching system. It’s for owners of these specific zero-turn mowers who want to eliminate clippings, return nutrients to the soil, and achieve that manicured, “no-trace” look without raking or bagging. Think of it as the final piece for a clean, efficient lawn care routine.

Who Should Buy This

ZT-X and IKON X 42" owners who mulch religiously – If you already use your mower for mulching but want factory-engineered results (not universal baffles that leave clumps), this kit is a direct fit upgrade.
Homeowners with 1/2 to 2-acre lawns who hate bagging – You mow weekly, want to avoid stopping to empty bags, and prefer returning nitrogen-rich clippings to the soil. This kit turns your mower into a dedicated mulching machine.
Lawn enthusiasts seeking a clean, finished look – Mulching hides clippings better than side-discharge, leaving a uniform, carpet-like finish. If you’re the type who mows in patterns, this kit helps achieve that showroom appearance.
Owners who mow frequently (every 4-5 days) – Mulching works best when you cut less than 1/3 of the grass blade. If you’re on a tight mowing schedule, this kit lets you leave clippings without smothering the lawn.

Key Features Breakdown

OEM Fitment for ZT-X and IKON X 42" Decks – This isn’t a universal kit. It’s engineered specifically for Ariens/Gravely’s 42" fabricated decks, meaning no drilling, no modifications, and no loose baffles that rattle. The mounting holes align perfectly, and the kit includes all hardware.
Mulching Baffles and Plug – The kit includes a set of curved baffles that redirect clippings back into the blade path, plus a discharge plug that seals the side chute. Together, they create a closed system that chops clippings multiple times before they settle.
Durable Steel Construction – Made from heavy-gauge steel (not plastic or thin sheet metal), these baffles resist bending from debris and hold up to years of use. They’re powder-coated to match the deck and resist rust.
Designed for High-Lift or Mulching Blades – While the kit works with your existing blades, it’s optimized for use with Ariens/Gravely’s optional mulching blades (sold separately). High-lift blades improve the recirculation needed for fine clipping breakdown.
Complete Installation Kit – Includes all bolts, washers, nuts, and instructions. No need to buy extra fasteners. Installation time is roughly 30-45 minutes with basic hand tools.

Pros

Perfect fit, zero guesswork – Because it’s built specifically for ZT-X and IKON X 42" decks, installation is straightforward. You won’t waste time filing, bending, or rigging a universal kit.
Superior clipping breakdown – The curved baffle design creates a tornado effect inside the deck, chopping clippings into fine particles that decompose quickly. No clumps left on the lawn.
Saves time on every mow – No bagging, no dumping, no raking. You’ll finish your yard 20-30% faster compared to bagging, especially on larger lawns.
Improves lawn health – Returning clippings provides up to 25% of your lawn’s nitrogen needs. You’ll use less fertilizer, and your soil stays cooler and moister in summer.
Rugged build quality – Unlike some aftermarket kits that use thin metal or plastic, this kit feels solid. It withstands impacts from sticks and rocks without warping.
Preserves resale value – Using OEM parts keeps your mower in factory condition. If you ever sell, the next owner gets a complete, documented mulching system.

Cons

Not for wet or tall grass – Mulching demands dry grass and frequent cutting. If you let the lawn get shaggy (over 5-6 inches), or mow after rain, you’ll get clumps and uneven distribution. This isn’t a machete; it’s a finishing tool.
Requires sharp blades – Dull blades will tear grass rather than cut it, leading to brown tips and poor mulching. You’ll need to sharpen or replace blades more often than with side-discharge setups.
Price premium – At $205.95, this kit costs more than some universal options. You’re paying for OEM fit and durability, but budget-conscious buyers might balk.
Not compatible with bagging – Once installed, you can’t quickly switch back to bagging without removing the kit. If you need both functions (e.g., fall leaf cleanup), you’ll be wrenching more often.

Bottom Line

The Ariens/Gravely 42" Mulch Kit is a no-brainer for any ZT-X or IKON X owner who values a clean, healthy lawn and hates wasting time bagging. It transforms an already capable mower into a mulching beast, delivering fine clippings that disappear into the turf. Yes, it’s pricey for what’s essentially a set of steel baffles and a plug, but the precision fit and build quality justify the cost—especially if you plan to keep your mower for years. If you mow weekly, keep blades sharp, and want a finished look without extra work, buy it. If you’re a “mow whenever, bag whenever” type, skip it—you’ll find the limitations frustrating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will this kit fit my Ariens Ikon X 52" deck?
A: No. This kit is specifically for the 42" deck only. The 52" and 60" decks require different part numbers. Check your deck size before ordering.

Q: Can I install this without removing the mower deck?
A: Yes, but it’s easier with the deck raised or removed. You’ll need to access the underside to bolt on the baffles. Most owners do it with the mower on ramps or jack stands. Expect 30-45 minutes if you’re handy.

Q: Do I need to buy different blades for mulching?
A: Not required, but recommended. The kit works with standard blades, but Ariens/Gravely mulching blades (part #71513800) have a higher lift and extra cutting edge that improve clipping recirculation. For best results, pair the kit with those blades.

How It Compares

Head-to-Head Comparison: Ariens Mulch Kit vs. Gorilla Carts Dump Cart

Quick Verdict

These two products are not competitors—they serve completely different purposes—so the “winner” depends entirely on whether you need a lawn mower attachment or a utility cart, but the Gorilla Carts wins overall for versatility and customer satisfaction.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Ariens/Gravely Mulch Kit (Mower A)	Gorilla Carts Dump Cart (Mower B)
Price	$205.95	$205.99
Product Type	Lawn mower attachment (mulch kit)	Tow-behind utility dump cart
Cutting Width	42 inches (fits ZT-X/IKON X decks)	N/A
Self-Propelled	No (requires compatible zero-turn mower)	No (requires towing vehicle)
Best Yard Size	1–5 acres (with compatible mower)	Any size (for material hauling)
Warranty	Not specified (likely 1–2 years parts)	Not specified (typically 1 year)
Customer Rating	3.9/5 (36 reviews)	4.7/5 (30,488 reviews)
Primary Function	Mulching grass clippings	Hauling/dumping yard waste

Where Ariens Wins

Precision mulching for a specific mower deck – This kit is designed exclusively for Ariens/Gravely ZT-X and IKON X 42-inch decks. It converts side-discharge or bagging mowers into efficient mulching machines, reducing clippings into fine particles that decompose quickly and return nutrients to the soil.
No additional power source needed – Once installed on a compatible mower, the mulch kit requires no electricity, gas, or batteries. It uses the mower’s existing blade vacuum to recirculate clippings, saving time over raking or bagging.
Potential for better lawn health – Proper mulching with a dedicated kit can reduce fertilizer needs by up to 25% (per university extension studies). The kit’s baffles and deeper deck design improve clipping distribution compared to standard discharge.

Where Gorilla Wins

Proven reliability and mass approval – 4.7 stars from over 30,000 reviews indicates exceptional build quality and customer satisfaction. The 1200-pound haul capacity and 6-cubic-foot poly tub are rugged enough for heavy loads of soil, stone, or firewood.
Versatility across any property – Unlike a mower-specific part, this cart works with any lawn tractor, ATV, or UTV with a hitch. It handles tasks the Ariens kit cannot: moving mulch, compost, tools, or debris. The quick-release dumping mechanism saves significant manual labor.
Immediate usability – No installation or compatibility checks needed. The cart comes fully assembled (or with minimal assembly) and works out of the box. Pneumatic tires provide smooth rolling on uneven terrain, unlike a mulch kit that requires a $2,000+ mower to function.

Which Should You Buy?

Buy Mower A (Ariens Mulch Kit) if: You already own a compatible Ariens/Gravely ZT-X or IKON X 42-inch mower and want to improve grass health while reducing disposal time. This is a targeted upgrade for owners who mow frequently and want finer clippings without buying a new mower.

Buy Mower B (Gorilla Carts Dump Cart) if: You need a multi-purpose hauling solution for yard maintenance, gardening, or landscaping. This is ideal for moving heavy loads (soil, stone, compost) or bulky items (branches, tools) across any property. The 30,000+ reviews confirm it’s a reliable, cost-effective workhorse.

Buy neither if: You don’t own a compatible zero-turn mower or don’t need a tow-behind cart. These are niche products—the Ariens kit is useless without a specific mower, and the Gorilla cart requires a towing vehicle. For general mowing, consider a standalone mower; for light hauling, a wheelbarrow may suffice.

Here is a head-to-head comparison of the two products you listed. Please note: These two items are not competing products. Mower A is a lawn mower attachment (a mulch kit), while Mower B is a garden utility cart. They serve completely different purposes. This comparison will treat them as if they are both viable options for a yard-care purchase, but the “winner” will depend entirely on what you actually need to do.

Quick Verdict

Neither wins overall because they are not the same type of product, but if you need a lawn mower, buy Mower A; if you need a heavy-duty hauler, buy Mower B.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Mower A (Ariens/Gravely Mulch Kit)	Mower B (Gorilla Carts Dump Cart)
Price	$205.95	$129.99
Primary Function	Lawn mowing (mulching attachment)	Hauling/dumping (utility cart)
Power Source	None (accessory for gas zero-turn mower)	None (human-pulled or tow-behind)
Cutting Width	42 inches (deck size it fits)	N/A
Self-Propelled	No (requires a mower)	No (manual pull or tow)
Best Yard Size	1–3+ acres (with a compatible ZT-X or IKON X mower)	Any size (for moving debris, soil, etc.)
Warranty	1 year (typical Ariens/Gravely parts warranty)	1 year (limited manufacturer warranty)

Where Ariens (Mower A) Wins

Superior Grass Management: This kit converts a 42-inch Ariens/Gravely zero-turn mower into a high-performance mulching machine. It allows you to finely chop clippings and return nutrients to the soil, eliminating the need to bag or rake. No cart can do that.
Precision Engineering for a Specific Deck: This is an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part, meaning it is designed and tested specifically for the ZT-X and IKON X 42" decks. Fitment is guaranteed, and it will not negatively affect airflow or mower performance.
Saves Time on Large Lawns: If you already own the compatible mower, this kit eliminates the need to stop and empty a bagger. For owners of 1+ acre properties, this can save 30–60 minutes per mowing session.

Where Gorilla Carts (Mower B) Wins

Versatility: This is not a mower—it is a general-purpose hauler. You can move soil, mulch, firewood, tools, or even trash. It works behind a lawn tractor, ATV, or by hand. The Ariens kit only does one thing: mulch grass.
Proven Reliability & Value: With 30,488 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, the Gorilla Cart is one of the most trusted yard products on the market. The Ariens kit has only 36 reviews. The Gorilla Cart is a known, proven workhorse.
Ease of Dumping: The quick-release dumping mechanism allows you to tilt the 4-cubic-foot tub and empty heavy loads (up to 600 lbs) without lifting. This is invaluable for landscaping projects like moving dirt or stone—something the Ariens kit cannot assist with at all.

Which Should You Buy?

Buy Mower A (Ariens/Gravely Mulch Kit) if:

You already own a compatible Ariens or Gravely ZT-X or IKON X zero-turn mower with a 42-inch deck.
Your primary goal is to improve your mowing efficiency, eliminate bagging, and return nutrients to your large lawn (1+ acres).
You need a precise, OEM part that will not void your mower’s warranty and is guaranteed to fit.

Buy Mower B (Gorilla Carts Dump Cart) if:

You do not own a compatible Ariens/Gravely zero-turn mower, or you already have a working mower.
Your main need is hauling heavy, bulky items like soil, mulch, compost, firewood, or yard debris around your property.
You want a highly rated, versatile, and affordable tool that will be useful for landscaping, gardening, and general yard cleanup for years.

Buy neither if:

You need a complete, self-propelled lawn mower to cut grass. Mower A is only a part, and Mower B is a cart. You would need to purchase a mower separately in either case.