8TEN Spindle Mulching Blade Kit for John Deere Scotts 42 inch Deck L100 L105 L107 L108 L110 L111 L118 L1742 L17.542

What It Is

This is a set of three mulching blades from 8TEN designed for 42-inch John Deere and Scotts lawn tractor decks. They replace standard side-discharge blades to finely chop clippings and return nutrients to the lawn, ideal for frequent mowing without bagging.

Fitment & Compatibility

Check deck size – These blades fit only 42-inch mowing decks (not 38-inch or 48-inch).
Model match – Fits John Deere L100, L105, L107, L108, L110, L111, L118, L1742, L17.542, plus Scotts L1742 and L17.542.
OEM cross-reference – Replaces John Deere parts GY20785, GY21042, and GY21143.
Measure before buying – Each blade is 20.5 inches long, 2.5 inches wide, with a 1-inch center hole and 0.25-inch thickness. Confirm your existing blades match these specs.
Aftermarket note – 8TEN is a third-party brand; quality is generally good, but not official John Deere.

Key Things to Know

• Installation difficulty – Easy, uses a single center bolt per blade. Requires a socket wrench and a block of wood to jam the blade.
• Mulching performance – Works best when you mow frequently and keep grass dry. Wet or tall grass may clump.
• Durability – Blades are heat-treated steel, but some users report faster dulling than OEM. Sharpen after 10-15 hours of use.
• Balance check – Always balance new blades before installing to avoid vibration and spindle damage. A simple blade balancer costs under $10.

Should You Buy It

If you own one of the listed 42-inch John Deere or Scotts models and want an affordable mulching upgrade (around $60 for a three-blade set), this kit is a solid choice. It’s best for homeowners who mow weekly and prefer a clean, mulched finish over bagging. Skip it if you need OEM durability for heavy commercial use or if your deck size doesn’t match.