Huthbrother Deck Adjustment Gear Kit 917-04074, Compatible with Cub Cadet MTD Troy Bilt Craftsman Ryobi 717-04074 717-1553 717-1553A 717-1553B, 710-0528 Hex Screw & 936-0119 5/16 Lock Washer

What It Is

This deck adjustment gear kit replaces the plastic gear and mounting hardware that controls cutting height on MTD-made lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers. It’s a common wear item when the deck won’t raise or lower smoothly.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Fits MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, Ryobi models with stamped or fabricated decks using a single adjustment rod.
• OEM cross-references: 717-04074, 717-1553, 717-1553A, 717-1553B. Includes 710-0528 hex screw and 936-0119 lock washer.
• Measure the gear shaft diameter (typically 5/16″) and the distance between mounting holes (usually 1.5″ center-to-center). If your original gear is metal or has a different tooth count, this plastic gear won’t match.
• Check your deck lift mechanism: this kit works with manual lever or foot-pedal systems that use a single nylon gear. Not for electric or hydraulic lifts.

Key Things to Know

• Plastic gear is the weak point – it strips over time from rust or binding. Replace the hardware (included) to prevent future failure.
• Installation is simple – remove the old gear, clean the shaft, slide on the new gear, and torque the hex screw to 8-10 ft-lb. No special tools needed.
• Common gotcha: the gear has a D-shaped center hole – ensure the flat side aligns with the shaft flat. Forcing it on wrong will strip immediately.
• If your deck height still won’t hold, the lift rod bracket or pivot pins may be bent. This kit only fixes a worn gear.

Should You Buy It

If your deck lift is slipping, won’t stay at the same height, or feels loose, this $6 kit is the first thing to try. It’s a cheap, easy fix for a common problem on most MTD-family mowers. Avoid it if your gear is metal or your lift mechanism is damaged beyond the gear itself.