Set of 2, Made In USA Heavy Duty Replacement Blades For Cub Cadet 742-3033, 759-3830, 742-04101, 742-04081. .204 Thick Heat Hardened Steel

What It Is

This is a set of two heavy-duty replacement blades for Cub Cadet and MTD-branded lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers, designed to replace OEM parts 742-3033, 759-3830, 742-04101, and 742-04081. They’re made from .204-inch thick heat-hardened steel and intended for homeowners with larger mowing areas who want a durable, USA-made alternative to standard OEM blades.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, check these three things:

• Deck size: These blades fit 42-inch, 46-inch, and 50-inch stamped decks common on Cub Cadet LT, XT, and ZT series (e.g., LT1042, XT1, ZT1). Measure your blade length—these are 20.5 inches from tip to tip.
• Model/brand fit: Designed for Cub Cadet and many MTD/Sierra/White Outdoor tractors using the listed OEM numbers. Not compatible with Kawasaki, Honda, or other engine brands unless the deck mounting pattern matches.
• OEM vs aftermarket: These are aftermarket blades, not genuine Cub Cadet parts. The center hole and offset are identical to OEM, but confirm your deck’s spindle pattern (usually a 5-point star or oval hole) matches the blade’s mounting hole shape.

Key Things to Know

• Thicker steel: At .204 inches, these are noticeably heavier than standard .160-inch OEM blades. This improves durability and lifespan but may require a higher-torque impact wrench for installation.
• Installation difficulty: Easy for a DIYer—just remove the center bolt, swap blades, and torque to 50-70 ft-lbs. Use a blade balancer after installation to avoid vibration.
• Edge sharpness: They come sharp but not razor-edged. If you want a finer cut, you can sharpen them lightly with a file or grinder (wear gloves).
• Common gotcha: These blades are not universal. They won’t fit decks with a 7/8-inch center hole or odd spindle patterns (e.g., some AYP/Husqvarna decks). Always compare your old blade’s length, hole size, and offset.

Should You Buy It

Buy these if you own a Cub Cadet or MTD tractor with a 42-50 inch deck, want a thicker, longer-lasting blade than standard OEM options, and prefer USA-made quality. They’re a solid upgrade for frequent mowing on rough terrain but not necessary if you only mow a small, flat lawn once a month.