3 Pack Pre-Greased 918-06978 Spindle Assembly with 954-05025A Deck Belt 490-900-M061 Deck Wash Kit Replaces 918 06978 618-06978 618 06978 for Cub Cadet XT1 ST54, XT2 GX54, XT2-ST54 Tractors

What It Is

This is a 3-in-1 replacement kit for Cub Cadet XT1 and XT2 lawn tractors with 54-inch stamped-steel decks. It includes three pre-greased spindle assemblies (replaces OEM 918-06978, 618-06978) plus a 954-05025A deck belt and a 490-900-M061 deck wash kit. Designed to restore cutting performance and belt drive on residential zero-turn and garden tractors with a 54" side-discharge or mulching deck.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Exact models: Cub Cadet XT1 ST54, XT2 GX54, XT2-ST54. Also fits XT2 LX54, XT1 LT54, and XT1 Enduro Series with 54" fabricated or stamped deck (check deck part number stamped on housing).
• OEM cross: Replaces 918-06978, 618-06978, 618-06978A, and 954-05025A belt. This is aftermarket, not genuine Cub Cadet.
• Before buying: Measure deck belt length (OEM spec is 112") and spindle mounting bolt pattern (3-bolt, 4" center-to-center). Verify spindle shaft diameter (5/8") and that your deck uses greaseable spindle housings (some older decks use sealed bearings).
• Not compatible: 46", 50", or 60" decks. Does not fit XT3 or commercial series.

Key Things to Know

• Pre-greased saves time: Spindles come packed with grease and sealed—no need to manually lube before install. But the grease is standard lithium; if you cut tall/wet grass, consider repacking with synthetic after first season.
• Belt quality: The included 954-05025A belt is aramid-reinforced, not Kevlar. It’s fine for residential use but may stretch sooner than OEM under heavy load. Expect 2–3 seasons.
• Install difficulty: Moderate. You’ll need a socket set, jack stands, and a puller for stuck spindles. Watch for stripped deck mounting holes—use anti-seize on bolts. The wash kit is a simple hose barb install (drill 3/8" hole if your deck lacks the port).
• Common gotcha: The deck belt routing is specific—check your manual or a diagram online. Mis-routing causes belt slip or thrown belt. Also, spindles are left/right identical, but the center spindle pulley height differs on some decks—verify stack height before tightening.

Should You Buy It

If you own a Cub Cadet XT1 or XT2 with a 54" deck and need to refresh all three spindles plus the deck belt in one go, this kit is a solid value at $76. It’s ideal for DIY homeowners who want a quick, matched replacement without sourcing parts individually. Skip it if you have an older deck with different bolt patterns, or if you need OEM-grade belt durability for commercial mowing.