50" Deck Spindle Rebuild Kit for Cub Cadet/for MTD LTX1050KH LTX1050VT SLTX1050, Include 3 Spindles 618-05016 918-05016, 3 Blades 742-04053, 2 Idlers 753-08171, 1 162" Belt 754-04240

What It Is

This is a complete spindle rebuild kit for 50-inch deck Cub Cadet and MTD lawn tractors (LTX1050KH, LTX1050VT, SLTX1050 models). It replaces three spindles, three blades, two idler pulleys, and one drive belt—everything needed to restore a worn-out cutting deck to like-new performance.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm your mower has a 50-inch stamped steel deck (not fabricated). The spindles (618-05016/918-05016) fit Cub Cadet and MTD models with a 1-inch spindle shaft and 5/8-inch hex blade mount. The blades (742-04053) are 17.25 inches long with a 0.25-inch thickness and a star center hole. Idlers (753-08171) and belt (754-04240, 162 inches) are specific to the LTX1050 series. Check your deck’s belt routing diagram—this belt replaces OEM part 754-04240 only. Measure your deck width and spindle spacing; if your deck is 50 inches but uses different spindle part numbers (e.g., 918-04674), this kit won’t fit.

Key Things to Know

• Quality note: Aftermarket spindles may use lighter-duty bearings than OEM. Expect 2-3 seasons of residential use (1-2 acres weekly). For commercial use, buy OEM.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate. You’ll need a socket set, torque wrench, and a puller to remove old spindle pulleys. Allow 2-3 hours.
• Common gotcha: The idler pulleys (753-08171) are sold as a pair, but your deck may use one flat and one grooved idler. Check your old idlers before installing.
• Belt tension: The 162-inch belt is tight. If your deck has a spring-loaded tensioner, release it fully before fitting the belt to avoid damage.

Should You Buy It

Buy this kit if you have a 50-inch LTX1050 series Cub Cadet or MTD with worn spindles, dull blades, and a stretched belt—it’s a cost-effective one-stop rebuild for residential mowing. Skip it if you need OEM parts for a commercial machine or if your deck uses non-standard spindles (measure first).