Mulching turns clippings into fine pieces that can be absorbed into the soil. This helps feed the grass and encourages the growth of microorganisms that can keep thatch build-up in check.
Understanding the mulch kit and blades
Mulch kit: For the best results, the mulch plug needs to be used with a set of high lift blades. Cardboard or another soft surface: The mower deck will need to be flipped over. A set of needle nose pliers may be needed to remove some older decks.
Push the deck’s idler pulley inward to relieve tension on the drive belt, then slide the belt off of the engine pulley. Disconnect the deck from the three brackets holding it to the mower. QuickAttach decks have J-hooks that can be pulled out, while older models use hairpin clips to secure the deck to the brackets. Slide the deck out from under the mower. Position the blade tool or wood block to keep the blades from spinning. The blades should have a part number or the word “bottom” stamped on them. When installing the blades, this side should be facing away from the deck.
Installing the mulch plug and blade setup
Tilt the discharge chute up. The plug has a bolt on the backside. Slide this bolt into the hole on the top of the deck next to the opening. Push the plug into the deck, then attach the strap on the front of the plug to the bracket for the front wheel of the deck. Release the discharge chute. The side discharge chute can be left on the mower when mulching, and the high lift blades can be used for both mulching and discharge.
Do you need a mulch kit for your riding mower? Are you looking for replacement blades or other parts for your Cub Cadet? Cubparts.com is a certified Cub Cadet dealer, so we stock everything you need to repair your mower as well as accessories that add new functions and improve performance. Our site has factory diagrams and descriptions of parts and assemblies, making it easy to find exactly what you need.
Preparation and safety steps
These instructions will guide you through how to install a mulch kit on your Cub Cadet riding mower. Depending on your model, the instructions may vary slightly. Step 1: Prepare your riding mower for maintenance. Place your mower on a flat, level surface. Turn the mower off and make sure the engine is cool. Remove the ignition key, disconnect the spark plug ignition wire, and engage the parking brake.
Step 2: Check the components of the mulch kit. Remove all parts from the carton to make sure everything is present. Step 5: Remove the deck drive belt from the engine pulley. Step 6: Remove 3 cotter pins and release the deck pins that secure the deck. For models with manual PTO, be sure to disconnect the PTO cable prior to deck removal. Step 7: Carefully flip the deck over to access the blades. Wear gloves for protection. A block of wood or the Arnold Blade Removal Tool (490-850-0005) can be used to stop the blades from rotating.
Installing mulch blades and reassembly
Step 8: Install the mulching blades. Carefully install the mulching blades included with your mulch kit and tighten the nuts securely per the specifications in your owner’s manual. Step 9: Reinstall your cutting deck following the steps in reverse order. Step 10: Reattach the deck. Step 11: Reinstall the belt. Place the belt in position as per the routing diagram.
Mulch plug installation details
Step 12: Installing the mulch plug. Step 13: Insert the rod of the mulch plug into the hole found in the front deck wheel bracket. Step 16: Slide the mulch plug wire over the pin on the deck’s surface. Step 17: Reconnect your spark plug wires. In the future, if you want to mow without mulching, simply remove the mulch plug. You will not need to change the blades.
In the future, if you want to mow without mulching, simply remove the mulch plug. Always use genuine OEM replacement parts when servicing your equipment. Use our parts finder to locate and order any replacement parts you may need for maintenance.
Tips for successful mulching
There are many benefits to mulching your lawn. Using your riding lawn mower and a mulch kit can increase the nutrients that are deposited on your lawn. We recommend that you lay down a piece of cardboard to protect the deck. A blade removal tool can be used to hold the blade in place during the removal of the blade nut. When you remove the old blades, make sure to keep the blade nuts for the installation of the new blades.
Next, use a wrench or breaker bar and socket to remove the hex flange nut that secures the blade to the spindle assembly. Notice that the hex flange nuts have a normal, right-handed, thread pattern. Replace the old blades with the blades included in the kit. Be sure to install each blade with the side marked "bottom" or with the part number on it, facing the ground when the mower is in the operating position. Also, line up the blades star pattern center hole with the star pattern of the spindle.
To install the mulch plug, lift the discharge chute up. Insert the mulch plug into the deck discharge chute opening by fitting the bolt on the rear side of the mulch plug into the hole in the deck. Pivot the mulch plug into place. Slide the deck back under the tractor and reattach the deck as instructed in your owner's manual. It's unnecessary to operate the tractor with the mulch kit installed. In the future, if you want to mow without mulching, simply remove the mulch plug.
Avoid frustration when buying parts, attachments, and accessories with the Cub Cadet Right Part Pledge. If you purchase the wrong part from Cub Cadet or a Cub Cadet authorized online reseller, Cub Cadet, or your Cub Cadet authorized online reseller will work with you to identify the correct part for your equipment and initiate a free exchange. Parts orders over $50 ship free, and orders placed before 5 pm ship same-day. Delivery for standard shipping averages three (3) business days. Some exclusions apply. Our outdoor power equipment experts are just one click away through Live Chat. Your dealer services your mower before bringing it to you.
