42 inch Deck Rebuild Kit - Fits Cub Cadet RZT42 LT1042 Columbia MTD LT1040 Troy Bilt 42 Bronco Super, 2 Spindle (918-0659) 2 Blade (942-04126-X) 1 Belt (954-04045) 2 Idler (956-04129)

What It Is

This 42-inch deck rebuild kit provides the essential wear items to restore cutting performance on mid-size residential lawn tractors. It includes two spindles, two blades, one drive belt, and two idler pulleys—everything needed to refresh a 42-inch stamped steel deck that’s lost its cutting edge or developed vibration.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify your deck width is exactly 42 inches (measured blade tip to blade tip). This kit fits Cub Cadet RZT42, LT1042, LT1040, Columbia, MTD, and Troy-Bilt 42-inch Bronco Super models with two-spindle decks. Cross-reference your OEM part numbers: spindles (918-0659), blades (942-04126-X), belt (954-04045), idlers (956-04129). If your deck uses a different belt length or spindle bolt pattern, this kit won’t work. Measure the spindle bolt center-to-center distance—it should match the 918-0659 spec. Aftermarket spindles may use different bearings than OEM; this kit uses standard replacements compatible with most MTD/Cub Cadet decks.

Key Things to Know

• Quality vs. OEM: Aftermarket spindles in this kit use sealed bearings that are comparable to OEM but may not last as long under heavy use. Blades are standard 42-inch replacements—check for straightness before mounting.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate. You’ll need a socket set, torque wrench, and possibly a puller for old spindles. Expect 1–2 hours if you’ve done deck work before; longer for first-timers.
• Common gotchas: The belt tensioner idler must be aligned exactly—misalignment causes premature belt wear. Torque spindle bolts to 30–40 ft-lbs; overtightening can warp the pulley. The blades must be oriented with the cutting edge facing the direction of rotation (usually counterclockwise when viewed from above).
• Missing parts: This kit does not include deck hardware (bolts, washers, lock nuts) or grease fittings. Reuse existing hardware or buy a separate hardware pack if any are rusted.

Should You Buy It

Buy this kit if your 42-inch Cub Cadet or MTD deck is vibrating, cutting unevenly, or has more than 200 hours without spindle service. It’s a cost-effective refresh for DIY owners who want to avoid buying individual parts. Skip it if you only need blades or a belt—those are cheaper separately.