942-0616A Mulching Blades for 42" Deck, 742-0616A Blades Compatible with Craftsman Troy-Bilt MTD Riding Lawn Mower, Replaces 942-04308 742-04308 942-0616 942-0616-X 942-04126-X, 4 Pack

What It Is

This is a 4-pack of aftermarket mulching blades (model 942-0616A / 742-0616A) designed for 42-inch cutting decks on Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, and MTD riding lawn mowers. They replace OEM part numbers 942-04308, 742-04308, 942-0616, 942-0616-X, and 942-04126-X.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm three things:

1. Deck size: Must be a 42-inch deck. Measure from blade tip to blade tip across the deck if unsure.
2. Blade measurements: Each blade is 21 inches long, with a 1-inch center hole and a 0.75-inch offset. Compare to your existing blade.
3. Mower brand/model: Fits most Craftsman (LT, GT, YT series), Troy-Bilt (Bronco, Pony, Super Bronco), and MTD (various) with a 42-inch stamped or fabricated deck. Avoid if you have an AYP, Husqvarna, or John Deere deck—these use different mounting patterns.

Check your current blade’s part number against the OEM list above. If your mower uses a 5-point star spindle or a different center hole shape, these won’t work.

Key Things to Know

• Mulching vs. bagging: These blades are designed to chop clippings fine and leave them on the lawn. They are not for side discharge or bagging—performance will suffer.
• Installation difficulty: Easy if you have a socket wrench and a blade removal tool (or a block of wood to jam the blade). Torque to 70–90 ft-lbs. Always disconnect the spark plug first.
• Sharpness out of the box: These are sharp but not razor-sharp. Consider a quick file touch-up before first use for best cut quality.
• Balance: Aftermarket blades can be slightly off-balance. Test spin before installing—if the blade wobbles, return or replace. A poorly balanced blade vibrates and can damage the spindle.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you have a 42-inch Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, or MTD rider, you want to mulch leaves or grass without stopping to empty a bag, and you prefer a 4-pack for future replacements. Skip it if you need bagging blades, have a non-MTD/Craftsman deck, or want OEM-specific fit—stick with genuine MTD parts in that case.