Replacement 918-06977A Spindle Fit for 46" Cub Cad et Deck Mower, Spindle Assembly Compatible with Cub Cad et XT1-LT46 XT2-LX46 Riding Mower, Craftsman 20442 Pro Lawn Tractor(2pack)

What It Is

This is a replacement spindle assembly (2-pack) for 46-inch deck mowers, specifically designed for Cub Cadet XT1-LT46, XT2-LX46, and Craftsman 20442 Pro Lawn Tractors. It drives the mower blades at high speed and supports the blade housing; when the bearings fail or the shaft bends, the spindle must be replaced.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm your mower has a 46-inch stamped steel deck (not fabricated or 42/54-inch). Check the following:

• Model numbers: Cub Cadet XT1-LT46, XT2-LX46, Craftsman 20442, and many other 46" deck Cub Cadet/Craftsman/MTD models. Verify your deck’s OEM spindle part number—this replaces 918-06977A, 918-06977, and 718-06977.
• Deck type: Works with 46" “Aero” or “AeroForce” stamped decks. Not for zero-turn or fabricated decks.
• Physical check: Measure the spindle housing height (approx. 4.5”) and shaft diameter (5/8” with a 1/8” keyway). Ensure your blade bolts are 5/8”–18 thread.
• Warranty note: Aftermarket part; may void OEM warranty if installed during the warranty period.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: Most users report it’s comparable to OEM—cast iron housing, sealed bearings, and a hardened shaft. Some note bearings are not serviceable (sealed).
• Installation difficulty: Moderate. Requires removing the deck, detaching the blade, pulley, and old spindle. A pulley puller and torque wrench (for blade bolt at 70-90 ft-lbs) are helpful.
• Common gotchas: The spindle may come without grease fittings (sealed bearings). Double-check that the pulley mounting holes align (some older pulleys have different bolt patterns). Always replace spindles in pairs if one fails.
• Fit note: Some users on Craftsman 20442 report needing to swap the pulley from the old spindle if the new one’s pulley offset is slightly different.

Should You Buy It

If you have a 46-inch Cub Cadet or Craftsman stamped deck with a failed spindle and want a cost-effective, drop-in replacement without paying OEM prices, this 2-pack is a solid buy. It’s not for zero-turns or fabricated decks, and you’ll need basic mechanical skills and tools. For the price, it’s a reliable fix for worn or bent spindles.