942-04308 Mower Blades Fit for Cub Cadet 42 inch Mower Blade, Compatible with Cub Cadet/Troy-Bilt/MTD/Craftsman 42'' Deck Mower, Replaces 942-04308, 742-04312, 942-04312, 2Pack(High Lift)

What It Is

This is a set of two high-lift replacement blades designed for 42-inch cutting decks on residential riding mowers. High-lift blades create stronger airflow for better bagging and side discharge, making them ideal for lawns with heavy grass or leaves.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Deck size: Must be exactly 42 inches (deck width stamped on deck or in manual).
• Brand fit: Fits Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, MTD, and Craftsman models with a 42-inch deck and the correct spindle pattern. Confirm your model number on the OEM parts list.
• OEM cross-references: Replaces 942-04308, 742-04312, and 942-04312. This is an aftermarket part, not OEM—quality is generally fine, but check for exact center hole size and offset.
• Measurements: Blade length should be ~21 inches (center hole to tip). Verify center hole diameter (typically 1 inch) and thickness. High-lift blades require more deck clearance—ensure your deck isn’t prone to grass buildup underneath.

Key Things to Know

• Installation difficulty: Easy for DIYers—just lift the mower, remove the old blade bolt, and swap. Use a torque wrench (40-60 ft-lbs for most riders). Sharp edges; wear gloves.
• High-lift trade-off: Better bagging but more engine load and slightly lower fuel efficiency. Not ideal for mulching unless you swap to low-lift blades.
• Common gotchas: Aftermarket blades may need balancing—check with a blade balancer before running. Also, ensure the blade bolt is the same thread pitch (typically 5/8-11 or 1/2-20) as your spindle.
• Pack quantity: Two blades per pack—enough for one 42-inch deck (two spindles). Verify your deck has exactly two blades (some 42-inch decks use three).

Should You Buy It

If you have a 42-inch Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, MTD, or Craftsman rider and need aggressive bagging or side-discharge performance, this is a solid budget-friendly choice. It’s not for mulching or for decks with three spindles. For the price, it’s a good value if you confirm fitment and balance before use.