Stens 266-253 OEM Replacement Belt Compatible with/Replacement for Cub Cadet Most XT1-LT46 KH and XT2-LX46 Mower Decks, MTD 13A8A1ZT099, 13ALA1ZT091 754-05022A, 954-05022 Mowers

What It Is

The Stens 266-253 is an aftermarket replacement belt designed for the cutting deck drive system on select Cub Cadet XT1-LT46 KH and XT2-LX46 lawn tractors with 46-inch decks. It transfers power from the engine pulley to the deck spindles, enabling blade rotation.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm your mower’s model number—not just the series name. This belt fits:

• Cub Cadet XT1-LT46 KH (models like 13A8A1ZT099) and XT2-LX46 (models like 13ALA1ZT091)
• Also replaces OEM part numbers 754-05022A and 954-05022

Check these three things:

1. Deck size: Must be 46 inches. Measure if unsure.
2. Belt dimensions: Stens 266-253 is a 1/2-inch wide, 90.5-inch long A-section belt. Compare against your old belt’s stamped length.
3. OEM cross-reference: Verify your original Cub Cadet belt number matches the list above. This is not a universal belt—it will not fit other deck sizes or series.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: Stens is a reputable aftermarket brand used by many dealers. This belt is reinforced with polyester cord for decent durability, though not quite as thick as OEM Cub Cadet belts.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate. You’ll need to remove the deck or at least the belt covers. A belt routing diagram is helpful—take a photo before removing the old belt.
• Common gotcha: Some users report the belt runs slightly tighter than OEM, which can cause minor vibration or pulley wear over time. Check pulley alignment and tension after installation.
• Price vs OEM: At $25.79, it’s roughly half the cost of a genuine Cub Cadet belt. Worth it for budget-conscious owners, but not for heavy commercial use.

Should You Buy It

If you have a confirmed compatible Cub Cadet XT1-LT46 KH or XT2-LX46 with a 46-inch deck and want a reliable, affordable replacement for light-to-moderate residential mowing, this Stens belt is a solid choice. Skip it if you need OEM-specific fitment for commercial use or if your machine has a different deck size or model number.