2 Pcs 946-04173E Deck Engagement Cable and 954-05040 Drive Belt Replacement for 754-05040 954-0241 746-04173 Compatible with Mtd Troy-bilt Craftsman Lawn Tractors Pony Bronco Horse Mower

What It Is

This is a two-piece kit containing a deck engagement cable (946-04173E) and a drive belt (954-05040) for MTD-built lawn tractors, including Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and Cub Cadet models like the Pony, Bronco, and Horse series. The cable engages/disengages the mower deck, while the belt drives the cutting blades.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Check deck size: This belt fits 42-inch and 46-inch decks (verify your deck’s stamped model number). For 38-inch or 50-inch decks, you’ll need a different belt.
• Confirm OEM numbers: Cross-reference your original part numbers: 754-05040, 954-0241, 746-04173. If your tractor uses a different prefix (e.g., 746-04173 vs. 946-04173E), the cable length or end fittings may vary slightly.
• Measure your old parts: Belt length should be 96.5 inches (outside circumference). Cable length (end-to-end, including fittings) should be about 38 inches. If yours differs, this kit won’t fit.
• Brand caveat: This is an aftermarket set, not OEM. It fits most MTD single-cylinder tractors from the 2000s–2010s, but verify your model’s year and series (e.g., Bronco 42E or Pony 42).

Key Things to Know

• Quality: User reviews are limited (2 ratings, 5.0 stars), but the parts are basic steel cable and rubber belt. Expect a solid year or two under normal residential use.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate. The belt requires routing around deck pulleys and idler (may need a wrench to release tension). The cable clips to the deck and dash lever—no special tools, but patience for alignment.
• Common gotcha: The cable’s plastic adjuster nut can strip if overtightened. Hand-tighten only, then test engagement before finalizing.
• Belt vs. drive belt: This is a deck belt, not the transmission drive belt. Make sure you’re replacing the correct one (look for belt routing diagram under the deck).

Should You Buy It

If you have a 42-inch or 46-inch MTD lawn tractor from the 2000s–2010s and need both a deck cable and belt, this kit is a cheap, practical fix. It’s not for heavy commercial use or odd-sized decks, but for a weekend homeowner, it’ll get your mower cutting again for about $15.