CUB CADET 742P04308-X Xtreme 21.23" Blade RZT SX42 XT1 XT2 ZT1 LTX1040 LTX1042 Tractors

What It Is

The CUB CADET 742P04308-X Xtreme 21.23" Blade is a replacement cutting blade designed for 42-inch and 46-inch Cub Cadet zero-turn and lawn tractor decks. It’s intended for medium to heavy residential mowing, including thick grass and light brush.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify your mower’s deck size (42" or 46") and confirm the blade length is exactly 21.23 inches. This blade fits Cub Cadet models: RZT SX42, XT1, XT2, ZT1, LTX1040, LTX1042, and select others with a 5-point star center hole. Check your OEM part number—this replaces 742P04308 and 942-04308. Measure your current blade’s length, width, and center hole shape (star vs. round). Not compatible with decks requiring 20.5" or 22" blades, or non-Cub Cadet brands without adapter plates.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: Xtreme blades are a step up from standard OEM, with thicker steel and a longer cutting edge. However, the 3.7-star rating (only 4 reviews) suggests limited feedback—inspect for warping or coating defects on arrival.
• Installation: Easy DIY job if you have a socket wrench and blade removal tool. Torque bolts to 70-90 ft-lbs. Use thread locker to prevent loosening.
• Common gotcha: This blade is NOT for 54-inch or 60-inch decks. Also, the star center hole can wear over time, causing wobble—replace if you see elongation.
• Lift: High-lift design improves bagging and discharge but increases engine load and noise. Not ideal for sandy or dusty conditions (accelerates blade wear).

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you need a direct-fit, OEM-replacement blade for a Cub Cadet 42" or 46" deck and want slightly better durability than standard stock blades. Skip it if your deck requires a different length, you mow in very dry/dusty conditions (high-lift kicks up debris), or you prefer a budget aftermarket brand with more reviews.