Ragged, brown grass tips after a weekend cut usually mean dull cutting edges are tearing turf rather than slicing it cleanly. Upgrading your cutting deck with the best craftsman mower blade restores crisp turf lines, promotes healthy green growth, and prevents strain on your mower spindle assemblies. Riding tractors and push mowers need precise deck geometry to maintain proper airflow, so picking up aftermarket replacements or standard universal lawn mower blades requires checking spindle hole patterns first. A fresh set eliminates ragged cuts, reduces clumping inside the deck, and keeps your turf looking pristine through peak growing cycles.
Worn cutting edges also force small engines to work much harder across dense turf, which wastes fuel and introduces unwanted vibrations. Before bolting on new steel, taking time to check lawn mower blade balance ensures smooth spinning and protects deck bearings from premature failure. Matching the correct 5-point star or bow-tie center hole pattern guarantees proper torque retention and safe operation under heavy mowing loads. High-lift and mulching profiles provide distinct grass-handling benefits, letting you tailor deck performance specifically for side discharge, bagging, or fine nutrient recycling.
Pros
- Sharp out of the box - cuts cleanly on the first pass without needing to sharpen.
- Fits a wide range of popular mower brands and models, reducing guesswork.
- Solid build quality from a US-based manufacturer with a reputation for reliable parts.
- Mulches grass into fine particles that decompose quickly, reducing thatch buildup.
- Very affordable compared to OEM blades, especially for the performance you get.
Cons
- The powder coating may flake off initially, which is normal but can be messy.
- Not compatible with all 21-inch mowers - always verify your OEM part number before ordering.
- Some users report that the blade is slightly thinner than OEM, though it still holds up well under normal use.
The MaxPower 331528B is a replacement mulching blade designed for many 21-inch cut walk-behind mowers from MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman. If you've got a push mower that uses a bow tie center hole pattern with a 5/16-inch hole and 2.5-inch spacing, this blade is likely a direct drop-in. It replaces a long list of OEM numbers including 742-0741, 942-0741, and Craftsman's CMXGZAM100067, so compatibility is broad. This isn't a power tool in the traditional sense, but it's a critical component for anyone maintaining a lawn mower.
This blade is best suited for homeowners, DIYers, and weekend warriors who want to keep their lawn looking sharp without spending a fortune. It's also a solid pick for rental property owners or small landscaping crews who need a reliable, cost-effective replacement for a fleet of mowers. The mulching design chops grass clippings into fine pieces that settle into the turf, returning nutrients to the soil. That means less bagging and a healthier lawn overall.
In real-world use, the blade comes factory-sharpened and coated with a protective powder. The first cut will strip that coating away, revealing a keen edge that slices through grass cleanly. Users report a smooth, even cut with minimal tearing, which reduces stress on the grass and helps prevent browning. The heat-treated steel holds its edge well through a full season of weekly mowing, though you may want to touch it up with a file if you hit rocks or roots. Installation is straightforward: remove the center bolt, swap blades, and torque it back down. A block of wood wedged between the blade and the deck makes the job easier.
Build quality is solid for an aftermarket blade. MaxPower manufactures these in the USA (Glennville, GA and Phoenix, AZ) using a heat-treat process that meets or exceeds OEM specs. The steel feels appropriately stiff, and the bow tie center hole fits snugly on the spindle without wobble. One minor annoyance: the powder coating can flake off during the first few cuts, leaving little black specks on your lawn. That's cosmetic and harmless, but worth noting. Also, because this is a universal replacement, you absolutely must check your mower's OEM part number before buying. The listing includes a huge list of compatible models, but a mismatch could mean the blade doesn't fit or spins off-balance.
Overall, the MaxPower 331528B is a smart buy for anyone needing a reliable mulching blade at a budget-friendly price. It cuts well, fits a wide range of mowers, and is built to last. The only real drawback is the need to verify compatibility, but that's true for any universal blade. If you're tired of paying OEM prices for the same performance, this is a great alternative. Just double-check your part number, and you'll be back to mowing in no time.
Blade Length: 21 inches
Blade Width: 2.25 inches
Center Hole: Bow tie pattern, 5/16-inch diameter outer holes, 2.5-inch center-to-center spacing
Weight: 1.6 pounds
Material: Heat-treated steel
Finish: Powder-coated (wears off on first use)
Manufacturer: MaxPower (USA-made in Glennville, GA and Phoenix, AZ)
Model Number: 331528B
Replaces OEM Numbers: 742-0741, 742-0741A, 742-04276, 742-04276S, 942-0641, 942-0741, 942-0741A, 942-04276, 942-04276S, CC-742-0741, Craftsman CMXGZAM100067
This blade fits many 21-inch cut mowers from MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman. Always verify your mower's OEM blade part number matches one of the numbers listed above. Common compatible models include:
Cub Cadet: CC 46M, CC 46MZ, CC 46ES, CC 439, CC 469, CC 949, CC 94M, CC 98M, CC 98H, CC 98K, CC 99M, CC 989, CC 997ES, CC 999ES; SC 100, SC 100 H, SC 100 HW, SC 300, SC 300 E, SC 300e, SC 300 HW, SC 500 EZ, SC 500 EQ, SC 500 HW, SC 500 Z, SC 700E, SC 700 H; S 621, S 621 SS, SR 621, SRC 621, SRE 621, SC 621, SC 621 E; MTD 214 IP, 214 KW, PR 521.
Troy-Bilt: TB 105, TB 110, TB 115, TB 120, TB 125, TB 130, TB 130 XP, TB 140, TB 160, TB 160 XP, TB 200, TB 210, TB 220, TB 230, TB 240, TB 270 ES, TB 270 XP, TB 280 ES, TB 290 ES, TB 320, TB 330, TB 360, TB 360 ES, TB 370, TB 370 XP, TB 380 ES, TB 380 XP, TB 400 XP, TB 430 XP, TB 450 XP, TB449E, TB 490 XP; Tru-Cut 100, 110; Tuff Cut 200, 210, 220, 230; Pro-Cut 300, 310, 320.
Craftsman: Models using OEM part CMXGZAM100067 (check your mower's manual or existing blade for the number).
Pros
- Sharp out of the box and stay sharp through multiple mows, even in sandy or rocky soil.
- Perfect fit for most 46-inch Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Poulan riders with the correct OEM number.
- Solid build quality – thick, balanced steel that handles heavy grass without bending.
- Much cheaper than equivalent OEM blades while delivering similar performance and longevity.
- Made in the USA adds confidence in quality and support for domestic manufacturing.
Cons
- May wear faster than premium OEM blades if you mow frequently over large, rough properties – expect to replace once per season.
- Fitment depends on matching the exact OEM number; double-check your current blade’s part before ordering.
- Powder coating can be off-putting at first, but it comes off quickly during the first cut to expose the sharp edge.
The MaxPower 561739B is a 2-blade replacement set designed for 46-inch cut riding mowers from Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Poulan. It’s a straightforward upgrade for homeowners who want to restore a clean, even cut without shelling out for expensive OEM parts. These blades measure 23 inches long and 2-3/4 inches wide with a 5-point star center hole, and they replace common OEM numbers like 405380 and 532405380. Before buying, it’s crucial to verify that your current blade’s OEM number matches one of those listed – otherwise fitment isn’t guaranteed.
This set is best suited for DIYers and homeowners who mow a standard residential lawn. It’s not for commercial landscapers logging hundreds of hours, but for weekly cuts on a couple of acres, it’s more than capable. The blades come pre-sharpened with a temporary powder coating that flakes off during the first pass, leaving a razor-sharp edge. In real-world use, that edge slices through thick grass and even light weeds without leaving stragglers or clogging the deck. Owners with bumpy or sandy yards report that the blades hold up well and maintain a good cut over several uses.
Build quality is solid for the price. MaxPower manufactures these in the USA using heat-treated steel, and they feel balanced right out of the box. Installation is simple – bolt them onto the spindle with no special tools needed. The 5-point star hole lines up perfectly on most compatible spindles, and the blades weigh about 2.4 pounds each, which adds enough inertia for good lift and discharge. They’re not the thickest or heaviest blades on the market, but they strike a nice balance between durability and ease of spinning.
One realistic limitation is that they won’t last forever. Some users note needing to replace them once per season if you mow frequently or in rough terrain. That’s pretty typical for blades in this price bracket, and the trade-off is significant cost savings – around half the price of equivalent OEM blades. Also, because fitment depends on a specific OEM number, it’s worth pulling off your old blade to verify the number before ordering. That minor extra step prevents returns.
Overall, the MaxPower 561739B set is a smart buy for anyone with a 46-inch Craftsman, Husqvarna, or Poulan mower who wants reliable cutting performance without overspending. It’s easy to install, sharp, and built well enough for regular homeowner use. You get a great cut at a fraction of the cost, and the Made in USA label adds a nice touch of confidence. For most DIYers and weekend mowers, this is a no-brainer replacement blade set.
Pros
- Exact fit for a wide range of 42-inch riding mowers with no need for additional parts
- Dramatically improves cut quality, especially for mulching and bagging applications
- Smooth, quiet operation reduces noise fatigue during long mowing sessions
- Durable build and good balance prevent vibration and premature wear
Cons
- High-lift blades can suck up small objects like garden hoses or rocks, so extra caution is needed around debris
- Fitment must be double-checked against the full model number because slight variations exist between mower series
- Blades may be slightly heavier than some stock blades, which could affect mower vibration on older decks
The UDC Parts 138971 (also labeled 532138971) is a 42-inch high-lift mower blade designed to replace OEM parts on a huge range of riding mowers from Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan, AYP, and others. This two-pack provides both blades needed for a full deck, making it a convenient and cost-effective alternative to buying from the local hardware store.
Who should buy these blades? They are ideal for homeowners and DIYers who want to improve the cut quality of their 42-inch riding mower without paying OEM prices. Contractors and property maintenance crews will also appreciate the consistent performance and durability across multiple mowing cycles. The high-lift design is especially beneficial for those who mulch or bag grass, as it produces a fine, evenly distributed clippings that disappear into the lawn, eliminating the need for raking or re-mowing.
Real-world performance is outstanding. Users report a dramatic reduction in noise, with the blades producing a soft hum rather than a loud roar. The cut is clean and even, even in slightly overgrown grass. The high-lift action creates a vacuum effect that lifts grass before cutting, resulting in a manicured look. Several reviews mention being able to drop the deck height one notch and still get a great cut. Durability has been solid after several months of use; the blades hold their edge and show no signs of bending or chipping.
Installation is straightforward. The blades feature a standard five-point star center hole and match the OEM dimensions exactly: 21 inches long, 2-1/4 inches wide, and 0.157 inches thick. They bolt directly onto the spindle without any need for adapters. Balance is good, and vibration is minimal, which reduces wear on spindle bearings and improves operator comfort.
Drawbacks are few but worth noting. The strong suction can pull in small debris like stones or hoses, so you must keep the area clear. Also, because the blades are slightly heavier than some stock ones, they might cause a minor imbalance on older, worn-out decks. Double-checking compatibility using the full model number of your mower is essential, as some models with similar names may use different blades. Overall, these blades deliver exceptional value and performance. If you want a quieter, cleaner cut from your 42-inch rider, this two-pack is a no-brainer.
Blade Length (diagonal): 21 inches
Width: 2-1/4 inches
Thickness: 0.157 inches
Center Hole: 5-point star
Air Lift Height: 15/16 inch
Cutting Edge Length: 3-5/16 inches
Compatible Deck Size: 42 inches
Quantity: 2 blades per pack
Replaces OEM Part Numbers: 532138971, 138971, 127843, 532127843, 138498, 532138498, 138971X431, 134149, 532134149, 531307224, CMXGZAM110136, 131323, 532131323, 594892701, 917127843, 917131323, 917138498MS, 917532138498
These blades are designed to fit a wide variety of 42-inch riding mowers from the following brands and model series. Always verify using your mower's full model number before purchasing.
Husqvarna: LTH, LT, YTH, YT, TS, RZ series including YTH22V42, YTH18542, YTA18542, YTH1542XP, LTH130, LTH140, LTH152, YTH2042, TS142, RZ4219, and many more (see full product description for complete list).
Craftsman: LT2000, YT3000, DLT2000, DLT3000, DYT4000, YT4000, DYS4500, YS4500.
Poulan: PB, PP, PO, BB, CO, PR, PXT, HD, PBA, PD, XT series including PB195H42LT, PP175G42, PB20H42YT, and others.
AYP: YE1442A, RE1242A, RL1242A, and many models with prefix 3420, 4211, 4217.
Other brands: Jonsered (J, LT13, LT15), Dixon (D19KH42), Weed Eater (WET2242STA), Murray (425014X92E), Central Park, Statesman, and Winston Pro.
If your mower is not listed, check the OEM blade part number against the list above. If it matches one of those numbers, these blades will work.
Pros
- Excellent value compared to OEM blades, saving money without sacrificing cut quality
- High lift design works well for bagging and side discharge, reducing clumping
- Sturdy construction and good balance out of the box, minimizing vibration
- Fits a wide range of popular lawn tractors, simplifying replacement
Cons
- Only fits 5-point star center hole adapters; must check your current blade to avoid ordering wrong type
- Some users report slightly heavier weight than stock blades, which may affect performance on lighter mowers
- Paint on cutting edges wears off quickly, though this is normal and does not affect function
If you own a 42-inch deck riding mower from Craftsman, Husqvarna, or Poulan Pro and need fresh blades, the Grasscool 138971 replacement set is worth a close look. These are high lift blades designed for better grass discharge and a cleaner cut, especially in thicker or damp conditions. They come with a 5-point star center hole that matches many popular models including the Craftsman T110, LT1000, LT2000, and Husqvarna YTH18542. Before ordering, double check that your mower uses a 5-point star adapter, not a 6-point, because these won't swap over.
Performance wise, these blades do exactly what you'd expect. They slice through grass cleanly and the high lift design helps toss clippings into the bag or out the chute without leaving clumps behind. Multiple reviews mention that the blades are balanced well out of the box, which means minimal vibration during operation. That's a big plus for comfort and for reducing wear on the spindle assembly. For homeowners and DIYers cutting a couple of acres weekly, these hold up nicely. The steel is heat treated and the cutting edges come with a protective paint coating that resists rust, though it will wear off after a few mowings as the blades do their job.
Build quality is solid at this price point. Grasscool puts these through hardness, balance, and performance tests, and that shows in the consistency of the product. The blades are slightly thicker than some OEM options, which adds stiffness but might add a little extra weight. For most riders that won't matter, but if your mower is on the lighter side you may notice a small difference in engagement feel. Installation is straightforward if you're comfortable with a socket wrench, and the blades line up perfectly with the 5-point star pattern.
One realistic limitation is the star point compatibility. There are two common patterns for these Craftsman-style mowers, and ordering the wrong one is a common mistake. Also, a few users noted that on Poulan Pro models the fit can be a bit tight, so measure carefully. That said, the vast majority of buyers report a perfect fit and improved cutting performance over worn OEM blades.
Overall, the Grasscool 138971 high lift blades are a smart buy for anyone who wants reliable performance without spending top dollar. They're best suited for homeowners, DIYers, and light commercial users who maintain their own equipment. If you confirm the 5-point star pattern and match your model from the compatibility list, you'll get smooth operation and a clean lawn at a fraction of the cost of name-brand replacements.
Pros
- Exact fit for many popular 42-inch tractors from Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Poulan.
- Pre-sharpened and ready to install out of the box.
- Solid steel build with a protective coating that wears off during use.
- Two-pack offers good value for the price.
Cons
- Safety paint may initially leave streaks on grass until it wears off completely.
- Not compatible with all 42-inch decks; double-check your mower model number.
- Some users may prefer a higher-grade steel for extremely tough or rocky terrain.
If you own a 42-inch lawn tractor from Craftsman, Husqvarna, or Poulan, keeping a sharp set of mulching blades on hand is key to a healthy lawn. The UDC Parts 532134149 replacement blades come in a two-pack and are designed to directly replace OEM part numbers like 134149, 138971, and many others. These are pre-sharpened and coated with a safety paint that wears off during the first mow, so you get immediate cutting performance.
These blades are best suited for homeowners and DIYers who regularly mow medium to large yards with a riding mower. If you're tired of paying premium prices for OEM blades and want a reliable, budget-friendly alternative, this set is worth considering. Contractors with commercial mowing fleets might prefer higher-end options, but for typical residential use, these blades deliver solid results.
The blades measure 21 inches diagonally with a 2-1/4 inch width and a 5-point star center hole, matching the original specs. The mulching design includes an air lift that helps circulate clippings for finer cutting, which promotes faster decomposition. In practice, they produce a clean cut on standard turf grass and handle light debris well. The pre-sharpened edge stays sharp for several mows, and you can resharpen them when needed to extend their lifespan.
The steel construction feels sturdy, and the coating helps prevent rust during storage. Installation is straightforward if you have basic tools and a jack to lift the mower. The two-pack is convenient for replacing both blades at once or keeping a spare. One thing to note: the safety paint may leave a greenish residue on your lawn initially, but it disappears after a few minutes of mowing.
The main limitation is compatibility. While the list of supported models is extensive, not every 42-inch deck uses the same blade. Always verify your mower's model number before ordering. Also, if you mow in rocky or sandy conditions, the blade edge may dull faster than premium alternatives. Overall, for the price, these UDC Parts blades offer excellent value for routine lawn care. They're a smart choice for anyone with a compatible tractor looking to maintain a sharp, efficient mulching setup without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which center hole pattern my Craftsman mower uses?
Inspecting your current blade or checking the tractor deck spindle directly is the only foolproof method. Craftsman riding tractors typically feature either a 5-point star or 6-point star center pattern, while walk-behind push mowers often rely on a specialized bow-tie or rounded center mount. Installing a blade with the wrong center hole shape will damage your spindle shaft and cause severe vibration. Always match the exact cutout pattern and OEM part number before tightening down spindle hardware.
What is the main difference between high-lift and mulching blades on a Craftsman deck?
High-lift blades feature aggressive upward rear curves designed to generate massive vacuum for bagging and side discharge, while mulching blades use curved serrated edges to repeatedly chop clippings under the deck. High-lift configurations excel at lifting bent or damp grass cleanly, preventing under-deck clogging during rapid growth periods. Mulching blades recycle nutrients directly back into the soil by creating fine green mulch without bagging.
Can I install a 46-inch blade set onto a 42-inch Craftsman lawn tractor?
No, blade lengths are deck-specific and cannot be interchanged between different mower deck sizes. A 42-inch Craftsman deck requires dual 21-inch blades, whereas a 46-inch deck relies on two 23-inch blades like the MaxPower 561739B set. Installing oversized blades causes them to strike the deck housing or collide with each other during spindle rotation. Always measure your existing blade diagonally from tip to tip to confirm correct clearance.
Why does my new Craftsman replacement blade have paint over the cutting edge?
Powder coating or industrial paint protects cutting edges against rust during shipping and warehouse storage. Premium replacement blades from brands like MaxPower and Grasscool come pre-sharpened underneath this protective coating. The thin paint layer wears off cleanly within the first few minutes of cutting turf, revealing a sharp edge without requiring manual bench grinding beforehand.
How often should I replace the mower blades on my Craftsman lawn tractor?
Replacing your cutting blades once per mowing season or after every 50 to 100 hours of operation maintains optimal yard health. Rocky properties or sandy soil can dull metal cutting edges much faster, requiring frequent visual inspections for nicks, bent tips, or gouges. While heavier steel like heavy-duty cutting blades can handle rugged conditions, severely worn or cracked Craftsman blades should always be replaced immediately to protect mower spindles from unbalance.
Do new replacement blades for Craftsman mowers come balanced from the factory?
Most factory blades arrive pre-balanced, but verifying balance on a simple cone balancer before installation is good maintenance practice. Minor imbalances can occur during shipping or surface coating, leading to deck shake and spindle bearing wear. If one side dips noticeably, a quick touch-up with a flat hand file on the heavy trailing edge restores perfect symmetry.
Write Your Review
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!