942-04308 High Lift Blades for 42" Deck, 942-04308A Mower Blades Compatible with Cub Cad-et Troy-Bilt Craftsman MTD Toro Lawn Mower, Replaces 742-04308, 742-04312, 942-04312, 2 Pack

What It Is

These are high-lift replacement blades for 42-inch cutting decks, designed to increase airflow and suction for superior grass clipping discharge and bagging performance. They’re ideal for homeowners with medium-to-large lawns who want a cleaner cut and less clumping in wetter conditions.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify your deck is exactly 42 inches wide—measure from blade tip to blade tip across the deck. These blades fit most MTD-branded tractors, including Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and Toro models with a 42-inch deck. Check your OEM part number: they replace 742-04308, 742-04312, and 942-04312. Measure your existing blade’s length (should be ~21 inches), center hole diameter (typically 1 inch), and spindle pattern (usually a 5-point star or oval). If your deck uses a different spindle or offset, these won’t work.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: Made from heat-treated, hardened steel; reviewers note they hold an edge well and resist bending on rocks or roots.
• Installation: Easy for DIYers—use a socket wrench and thread lock on spindle bolts. Torque to 70-90 ft-lbs. Lift the deck or block it safely first.
• Gotcha: High-lift blades create more drag, so you may notice slightly reduced engine RPM or increased fuel consumption on underpowered tractors.
• Common issue: The blades are sharp out of the box but may need balancing if they vibrate after install. Use a blade balancer.

Should You Buy It

Buy these if you have a 42-inch MTD-style deck and want better bagging or discharge performance, especially in thick or damp grass. They’re a solid upgrade over standard low-lift blades at a fair price. Avoid them if your deck is smaller or uses a different spindle pattern.