942-04308 Lawn Mower Blade, 42 inch Mower Blade Compatible with Cub Cadet XTL-42, ZTL-42, LT42, 942-04308A 942-04312 for Troy-Bilt 42 inch Mower Blades, 6-Star Center Hole

What It Is

The 942-04308 is a 42-inch lawn mower blade designed for zero-turn and riding mowers with a 6-star center hole. It’s a direct replacement for cutting grass on Cub Cadet XTL-42, ZTL-42, and LT42 models, as well as compatible Troy-Bilt 42-inch mowers.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm your mower deck size is exactly 42 inches (measured blade tip to tip). This blade fits Cub Cadet models with OEM part numbers 942-04308, 942-04308A, and 942-04312. It also works on Troy-Bilt 42-inch decks using the same cross-reference. The 6-star center hole is specific—measure your spindle’s star pattern (typically 1-inch diameter with six points) to ensure it matches. Avoid assuming fit based on brand alone; verify your model number and deck type (e.g., XTL-42 vs. LT42) in your owner’s manual or current blade.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: Aftermarket blade, not OEM Cub Cadet. Priced at $25.99, it’s a budget-friendly alternative. Check for balanced weight and sharpness out of the box—some users report needing light sharpening.
• Installation: Straightforward if you have a socket wrench and torque specs (typically 70-90 ft-lbs). Use a blade removal tool or block wood to prevent spinning. The 6-star hole centers easily but can be tight if corroded.
• Common gotchas: Verify blade length (42 inches) and width (usually 2.5-3 inches) for proper airflow and cutting. Some decks may require a specific offset or lift angle; compare to your old blade. Replace bolts if worn—use OEM-grade hardware.
• Performance: Good for standard residential grass cutting. Not ideal for mulching or bagging unless paired with a mulch kit. Expect a clean cut on flat lawns but may struggle in thick or wet grass.

Should You Buy It

Buy it if you need a cost-effective replacement for a 42-inch Cub Cadet or Troy-Bilt mower with a 6-star spindle, and you’re comfortable with basic DIY installation. Skip it if you require OEM precision for heavy commercial use or if your deck uses a different hole pattern (e.g., 5-point star or oval). For $25.99, it’s a solid value for residential mowing.