CUB CADET 19A70041OEM 42" Mulch Kit RZT XT1 XT2 42 L42 LT42 Riding Mower Review

Overview

The Cub Cadet 19A70041OEM 42" Mulch Kit is a factory-engineered accessory designed specifically for Cub Cadet RZT, XT1, XT2, and select 42-inch LT and L42 series riding mowers. It converts your side-discharge or bagging mower into a dedicated mulching system, allowing grass clippings to be finely cut and returned to the lawn as natural fertilizer. This kit is best for owners of these specific Cub Cadet models who want a cleaner lawn appearance, reduced bagging chores, and healthier turf without buying a separate mulching mower.

Who Should Buy This

1. Owners of Cub Cadet RZT/XT1/XT2 42-inch mowers who currently side-discharge or bag and want to switch to mulching without buying a new mower. This is the only OEM mulching option for these models.

2. Homeowners with flat, well-maintained lawns who mow frequently (every 4-5 days) and want to eliminate bagging while feeding their grass naturally. Ideal for those who value time savings over perfect bagged clippings.

3. Eco-conscious lawn care enthusiasts who prefer leaving clippings to return nitrogen and organic matter to the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. This kit helps you recycle nutrients directly.

4. Budget-minded buyers who already own a compatible Cub Cadet and want to add mulching capability for roughly $75 instead of spending $500+ on a dedicated mulching mower.

Key Features Breakdown

• OEM Fitment for 42-inch Cub Cadet Decks: This is not a universal kit—it’s precision-designed for Cub Cadet’s 42-inch fabricated or stamped decks on RZT, XT1, XT2, and L42/42LT series. The baffles and plug match the deck contours exactly, which means no drilling, cutting, or improvisation. If you have one of these models, installation is straightforward.

• Includes Baffle Kit and Discharge Plug: The kit contains two metal baffles that redirect clippings inside the deck, plus a rubber discharge plug that seals the side chute. Together, they force grass to circulate under the deck for multiple cuts before dropping. This is the same engineering Cub Cadet uses on their factory mulching mowers.

• Designed for High-Velocity Mulching: The baffle design creates a vacuum-like airflow that lifts grass for a second cut before it exits. This reduces visible clumps and produces finer clippings that decompose quickly. It works best when you’re mowing dry grass and not letting it get too tall.

• Durable Steel Construction: The baffles are heavy-gauge steel with a powder-coated finish to resist rust. This is not a flimsy plastic kit—it’s built to last as long as your mower deck.

• No Special Tools Required: Installation uses existing deck bolts and requires basic hand tools (wrench, socket set). Most owners can install it in 30-45 minutes without removing the deck.

Pros

1. Factory-Engineered Fit: Because it’s OEM, every hole aligns perfectly. No bending, grinding, or aftermarket adjustments needed. This matters because a poor-fitting mulch kit can leave uncut strips or throw clumps.

2. Eliminates Bagging Chores: Once installed, you never have to stop to empty bags or deal with clippings. For larger lawns (1-2 acres), this can save 30-60 minutes per mow.

3. Improves Lawn Health: Returning fine clippings provides up to 25% of your lawn’s nitrogen needs naturally. Your grass gets free food, and you buy less fertilizer.

4. Cleaner Appearance Than Side-Discharging: Side-discharge leaves windrows of clippings that can smother grass. Mulching distributes them evenly, so no raking or blowing is needed afterward.

5. Solid Build Quality: The steel baffles are thick enough to resist bending from rocks or roots. This is not a cheap plastic kit that cracks after one season.

6. Cost-Effective Upgrade: At roughly $75, it’s the cheapest way to add mulching to a compatible Cub Cadet compared to trading for a mulching-specific model.

Cons

1. Mediocre Results on Tall or Wet Grass: This kit struggles if you let grass get over 5-6 inches tall or mow when it’s damp. You’ll get clumps and visible clippings. It demands frequent mowing at the right height.

2. Not Compatible with All 42-Inch Decks: Despite the product title, this kit only fits specific RZT, XT1, XT2, and select L42/LT42 models. Owners of older or non-listed Cub Cadet 42-inch mowers may find it doesn’t fit. Always verify your deck model number before buying.

3. Installation Can Be Tight: While straightforward, the baffles require you to reach under the deck and access bolts in tight spaces. If you’re not mechanically inclined, you might need 60-90 minutes and a second set of hands.

4. Single Review with 1.0/5 Rating: The current rating (1.0 from 1 review) suggests at least one buyer had a poor experience—likely a fitment issue. Without more reviews, it’s hard to judge real-world satisfaction. Buy from a place with easy returns.

Bottom Line

The Cub Cadet 19A70041OEM 42" Mulch Kit is a smart, affordable upgrade for owners of compatible RZT, XT1, XT2, and L42/42LT mowers who want to stop bagging and start feeding their lawn naturally. It’s well-built, fits precisely, and works great if you mow frequently on dry grass. However, the single poor review and fussy fitment requirements mean you must double-check your mower’s deck model before purchasing. If you have the right machine and are willing to mow on a schedule, this kit will pay for itself in time saved and fertilizer not bought. I recommend it for committed mulchers who already own a compatible Cub Cadet—but skip it if you let your lawn get shaggy or mow in wet conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will this mulching kit fit my Cub Cadet XT1 42-inch mower from 2018? A: It depends on the exact deck model. This kit fits XT1 models with the 42-inch fabricated deck (often stamped “42F” on the deck housing) and some stamped decks. Check your mower’s model number (found under the seat or on the frame) and cross-reference with Cub Cadet’s fitment chart. If your deck has a rounded side discharge chute, it’s likely compatible. If it has a square or older-style chute, it may not.

**Q: Can I switch back to side-discharge or