42-Inch Mulch Cover Kit for Husqvarna/Craftsman Lawn Tractor Deck with Mounting Hardware - Replaces 960710005 954040501 583207101

What It Is

This 42-inch mulch cover kit replaces the standard discharge chute on Husqvarna and Craftsman lawn tractor decks, blocking grass clippings from ejecting and forcing them back into the blade chamber for finer cutting and natural lawn feeding. It’s designed for mowing without bagging or side-discharging.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Deck size must be exactly 42 inches – measure your deck’s cutting width from blade tip to blade tip. This kit won’t fit 46-inch or 54-inch decks.
• Fits most Husqvarna (GTH, YTH, LTH, TS series) and Craftsman (LT, GT, DLT series) models with a 42-inch stamped steel deck. Check your owner’s manual or current deck part number.
• Replaces OEM part numbers 960710005, 954040501, and 583207101 – if your tractor uses any of these, this kit is a direct swap.
• Includes mounting hardware (bolts, nuts, sometimes a bracket) – no extra fasteners needed, but verify your deck has the corresponding mounting holes (usually two on the right side of the deck near the discharge opening).
• Aftermarket part – not genuine Husqvarna/Craftsman. Fitment is generally good, but some users report needing to slightly enlarge holes or use washers for a snug seal.

Key Things to Know

• Installation takes 10-20 minutes – remove the existing discharge deflector (if present), then bolt the mulch cover in place. Basic socket set required.
• Quality concern: At 3.6 stars with only 9 reviews, some users note thin plastic that can crack if over-tightened or hit a stump. Hand-tighten bolts, then add a quarter turn.
• Won’t convert a bagger mower to mulch – this kit only replaces the side-discharge chute. You still need a mulch blade (sold separately) for best results.
• Check deck clearance – on some older Craftsman decks, the cover may contact the deck belt or pulley if not seated perfectly. Test spin the blades by hand after installation.

Should You Buy It

Buy this kit if you have a 42-inch Husqvarna or Craftsman tractor and want a cheap, simple way to switch from side-discharge to mulching without buying a new deck. It’s a budget-friendly alternative to OEM parts, but skip it if you need a durable, heavy-duty cover for rough terrain or frequent mulching – the thin plastic may not hold up. For occasional mulching on flat lawns, it’s a solid value.