46 Inch Deck Spindle Rebuild Kit Replace for Cub Cadet XT1-LT46 XT2-LX46, Fit for Craftsman/MTD T225 T240 T2800 T3100 T8200 T8600, with 2 Spindles 618-06977 918-06977A, 2 Blades 742-04244 742-04290

What It Is

This is a complete 46-inch deck spindle rebuild kit for residential lawn tractors, replacing the entire spindle assembly (housing, bearings, shaft) and blades on Cub Cadet XT1/XT2 and compatible Craftsman/MTD models. Designed for mid-duty mowing on 1–3 acre lots.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify:

• Deck size: Must be exactly 46 inches (measured blade tip to tip). This kit will not fit 42-inch or 54-inch decks.
• Model numbers: Confirmed fit for Cub Cadet XT1-LT46, XT2-LX46, and Craftsman/MTD T225, T240, T2800, T3100, T8200, T8600. Check your mower’s model tag (under seat or on frame).
• OEM cross-reference: Replaces spindles 618-06977 / 918-06977A and blades 742-04244 / 742-04290. If your current spindles or blades have different numbers, measure spindle bolt pattern (center-to-center of mounting holes—should be 3.5–4 inches) and blade length (15 inches typical for 46-inch decks).
• Deck type: Only for stamped steel decks (common on MTD/Cub Cadet). Not for fabricated/fab decks.

Key Things to Know

• All-in-one kit: Includes 2 spindle assemblies (with bearings pre-installed) and 2 blades. No need to press bearings or buy separate parts.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate—requires removing the deck, unbolting old spindles (3 bolts each), and transferring the pulley. Expect 1–2 hours with basic hand tools (socket set, wrench, jack stands).
• Blade orientation: The blades included are standard mulching/medium-lift. If you prefer high-lift (for bagging) or low-lift (for side discharge), you’ll need to buy separate blades.
• Common gotcha: The spindle pulleys are not included—reuse your old ones. Check pulley condition (wobble, worn grooves) before reassembly.

Should You Buy It

If your Cub Cadet or Craftsman/MTD 46-inch deck has a noisy or wobbling spindle, or if blades are dull/damaged, this kit is a cost-effective, time-saving fix. It’s ideal for DIY owners who want a drop-in replacement with no bearing pressing. Skip it if you need high-lift blades or if your deck is a different size (42 or 54 inches).