John Deere 42" Lawn Mower Deck Rebuild K vs 46 Inch Deck Rebuild Kit Fit Cub Cadet L
Quick Verdict
The John Deere 42" Lawn Mower Deck Rebuild Kit wins for most users. It has a slightly higher rating from over 12 times as many reviews, indicating proven reliability and broad satisfaction. The Cub Cadet kit offers a wider 46-inch cut and fits multiple brands, but the John Deere kit is the safer, more trusted choice for standard 42-inch decks.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | John Deere 42" Kit | Cub Cadet 46" Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.99 | $104.99 |
| Deck Width | 42 inches | 46 inches |
| Rating | 4.4/5 (737 reviews) | 4.3/5 (61 reviews) |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 1 acre | 1–2 acres |
The John Deere kit costs $5 less. The Cub Cadet kit covers a larger deck but has far fewer reviews, making its rating less statistically reliable.
Where John Wins
- Proven track record. With 737 reviews and a 4.4 average, this kit has been tested by hundreds of owners. You know what you’re getting.
- Better value. At $99.99, it’s the cheaper option. For a rebuild kit, every dollar counts, and this one delivers at a lower price point.
- Fits John Deere 42" decks precisely. If you own a John Deere mower with a 42-inch deck, this kit is designed to match OEM specs. No guesswork, no modifications.
- Higher rating. The 4.4 rating is statistically robust. The Cub Cadet’s 4.3 is close, but based on only 61 reviews, it could shift with more feedback.
Where Cub Cadet Wins
- Wider deck coverage. The 46-inch kit suits larger mower decks. If you have a 46-inch deck on a Cub Cadet, Craftsman, or MTD, this is the right size.
- Multi-brand compatibility. It fits Cub Cadet LTX1045, LTX1046, Craftsman, and MTD models. This flexibility is useful if you own one of those brands or plan to switch mowers later.
- Slightly larger cut. A 46-inch deck covers more ground per pass. For yards over 1 acre, that extra width can save time.
Which Should You Buy
Buy the John Deere 42" Kit if:
- You own a John Deere mower with a 42-inch deck.
- You want the most trusted, well-reviewed option.
- Your yard is 1 acre or less, and you don’t need a wider deck.
- You want to save $5 and avoid compatibility guesswork.
Buy the Cub Cadet 46" Kit if:
- You have a 46-inch deck on a Cub Cadet, Craftsman, or MTD mower.
- You need a multi-brand kit for flexibility.
- Your yard is larger than 1 acre, and the extra cut width matters.
- You’re comfortable with a less-reviewed product.
For most homeowners, the John Deere kit is the clear winner. It’s cheaper, better rated, and proven across hundreds of real-world uses. The Cub Cadet kit is a solid choice only if you specifically need a 46-inch fit or multi-brand compatibility. Otherwise, stick with the John Deere.