42 Inch Deck Rebuild Kit Fit for MTD Cub Cadet XT1 XT1 LT42 LT42 XT2 XT2 LX42 LX42 Craftsman T8000 Tractor Parts Spindle 918-06976 Blade 742-04308 Idler Pulley GY22082 Belt 754-05021

What It Is

This is a complete 42-inch deck rebuild kit for MTD-built tractors (Cub Cadet XT1/XT2 series and Craftsman T8000). It includes a spindle assembly (918-06976), a blade (742-04308), an idler pulley (GY22082), and a drive belt (754-05021) — everything needed to refresh a worn-out cutting deck in one purchase.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Deck size must be exactly 42 inches — measure your deck width (cutting path) before ordering. This kit will not fit 46-inch, 48-inch, or 50-inch decks.
• Brand/model check: Fits Cub Cadet XT1 LT42, XT1 LX42, XT2 LX42, and Craftsman T8000. Also fits many other MTD-built tractors with a 42-inch deck and the listed OEM part numbers.
• OEM cross-references: Spindle 918-06976, blade 742-04308, idler pulley GY22082, belt 754-05021. If your tractor uses different part numbers, this kit is not compatible.
• Measurements: Blade length is 21 inches (standard for 42-inch decks). Belt is 1/2-inch wide by 105.5 inches long. Idler pulley is 4.0 inches OD with a 5/8-inch bore.

Key Things to Know

• Quality is mixed — the spindle and pulley are decent aftermarket parts, but the blade is thinner than OEM (0.187 vs 0.200 inch) and may wear faster or bend on heavy debris.
• Installation requires basic tools — a socket set, breaker bar, and a jack/ramps to access the deck. Expect 1–2 hours if you’ve done deck work before.
• Check your old belt routing — the included belt is correct length, but routing varies by model. Take a photo before disassembly to avoid confusion.
• Spindle may need grease — the spindle comes pre-lubed, but some users report it runs dry. Add a shot of grease to the zerk fitting before installing.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you have a 42-inch Cub Cadet XT1/XT2 or Craftsman T8000 and want a one-box solution to replace worn blades, a wobbly spindle, a seized idler, and a stretched belt. It’s a good value for a complete refresh, but if you need OEM durability (especially on the blade), buy the spindle kit separately and source a genuine blade.