8TEN Spindle High-Lift Blade Kit for 50" Cub Cadet & MTD Decks — Fits OEM 618-06980 / 942-05052A, Restores Lift & Clean Cut

The 8TEN Spindle High-Lift Blade Kit is a direct-fit replacement set engineered to restore cutting performance on 50-inch Cub Cadet and MTD mower decks.

If your Cub Cadet or MTD zero-turn or garden tractor isn’t producing the lift or clean cut it used to, worn spindles and blades are often the culprits. This kit combines a robust spindle assembly compatible with OEM part numbers 618-06980 and 918-06980 plus a heavy-duty high-lift blade matching OEM 942-05052A specifications. Together they deliver the correct height, pulley diameter, thread size and blade profile needed for reliable operation on many 50" mower decks.

Which machines does this kit fit?

This kit is designed for a specific group of Cub Cadet and MTD 50-inch mower decks. It fits a range of RZT, XT1, ZT1 and MTD series models when those decks use the referenced OEM spindle and blade numbers. Always verify your deck model and OEM part numbers before ordering to ensure compatibility.

• Cub Cadet RZT-LX50, RZT-L50, RZT-S50, RZT-SX50
• Cub Cadet XT1-GT50, ZT1-50 (50" decks)
• MTD G8200, G8300, ZS6700, Z550, ZT-L50 (50" decks)
• Matches OEM spindles 618-06980 / 918-06980 and blades 942-05052A

What are the precise spindle and blade specifications?

The kit includes a spindle with the exact dimensions needed to align belt and blade height on 50" decks and a high-lift blade sized for efficient clippings discharge. Key measurements are provided so you can confirm fitment and avoid clearance or mounting issues.

• Spindle height: 6 7/8" for correct deck alignment
• Pulley outer diameter: 5" to match belt routing
• Thread size: 5/8" UNF for secure mounting
• Blade length: 17 5/16", width: 2 3/8", thickness: 0.1875"
• Blade center: 6-point star hole matching OEM pattern

How will this high-lift blade and spindle improve mowing results?

Replacing worn spindles and blades restores blade elevation and deck airflow, leading to a cleaner cut and improved clippings evacuation. The high-lift blade profile helps lift grass into the cutting stream, while a correctly spec'd spindle keeps the blade at the intended angle and rotational stability.

• Restores designed cutting height and deck airflow
• High-lift blade improves bagging and side discharge performance
• OEM-equivalent spindle thread and pulley reduce installation issues
• Durable blade thickness resists bending and premature wear

What should I check before installation?

Confirming a few details before you begin avoids wasted time and ensures a safe installation. Gather the model and serial number of your mower, compare part numbers, and inspect deck clearance and belt condition while replacing the parts.

• Verify deck model and OEM part numbers (618-06980, 918-06980, 942-05052A)
• Check belt condition and routing for the 5" pulley diameter
• Confirm spindle height clears deck housing (6 7/8")
• Use correct torque for 5/8" UNF mounting fasteners

Who is this for: This 8TEN Spindle High-Lift Blade Kit is aimed at owners and maintenance technicians of Cub Cadet and MTD lawn tractors and zero-turns with 50" mower decks who want an OEM-compatible replacement. It's appropriate for users restoring cut quality, preparing mowers for the mowing season, or upgrading worn deck hardware to regain reliable bagging or discharge performance. If you need exact OEM match dimensions, reduced downtime and a straightforward, bolt-on replacement for common 50" deck configurations, this kit is a practical choice.