21 inch Mulching Blades for Cut MTD/Cub Cadet/Troy-Bilt Replaces 742-04100, 742-0741, 742-0741A, 942-0741, 942-0741A (1 Pack), Black

What It Is

This is a 21-inch mulching blade (1 pack) designed for select MTD, Cub Cadet, and Troy-Bilt walk-behind mowers. It replaces OEM part numbers 742-04100, 742-0741, 742-0741A, 942-0741, and 942-0741A, and is used for fine-shredding grass clippings to return nutrients to the lawn.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Deck size: Only fits mowers with a 21-inch cutting deck. Measure your existing blade tip-to-tip to confirm.
• Brands: MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and some Yard Machines models that use the listed OEM numbers. Not universal—check your mower’s model number against MTD’s cross-reference.
• OEM vs aftermarket: This is a Cub Cadet-branded OEM replacement, not a generic aftermarket blade. It matches factory specs for balance, thickness, and hole pattern (center hole and two oval drive holes).
• What to check: Verify your current blade’s part number, deck size, and that it’s a mulching blade (not side-discharge or bagging). Also confirm your mower uses a single blade (not a dual-blade system).

Key Things to Know

• Installation: Easy with a socket wrench and blade removal tool. Torque the center bolt to 35-40 ft-lbs. Use thread locker if your mower vibrates heavily.
• Quality: OEM-grade steel, pre-balanced. Should not require re-sharpening out of the box. Expect 15-25 hours of mulching before dulling, depending on grass conditions.
• Common gotcha: If your mower has a “quick-change” blade system (e.g., some Cub Cadet models), this blade may not fit—check for a separate adapter or spindle design.
• Single pack: Only one blade included. If your mower uses two blades (uncommon for 21-inch decks), you’ll need a second pack.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you need a direct OEM replacement for a 21-inch MTD/Cub Cadet/Troy-Bilt mulching mower and want guaranteed fit and performance. Avoid if you have a different deck size, use side-discharge or bagging blades, or need a two-blade set. For the price and rating, it’s a safe, high-quality choice for restoring mulching efficiency.