I Tested the Cub Cadet PTO Clutch: My Honest Experience and Tips
If you’ve ever spent time working with a Cub Cadet mower or tractor, you know how crucial every component is to its smooth operation. One part that often flies under the radar but plays a vital role is the Cub Cadet PTO clutch. I’ve come to appreciate just how important this little mechanism is—not only does it control the power transfer to your mower’s blades or attachments, but it also impacts the overall performance and safety of your equipment. In this article, I want to share some insights into the Cub Cadet PTO clutch, shedding light on why it matters and how it keeps your machine running efficiently when you need it most.
I Tested The Cub Cadet Pto Clutch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PetMigo PTO Clutch 717-04174, 917-04174 for Cub Cadet MTD LT1042 LT1045 SLT1550 SLTX1054 LTG1054 LTG1050 GT54 GT50 Big Red Horse Horse Series, Warner 5219-64 5219-79 717-04552A
Xtreme Outdoor Power Equipment X0390 PTO Clutch Compatible with/Replacement for Cub Cadet FMZ50, LTX1042, LTX1045, LTX1046, LTX1050, RZT50, RZT54 and Z Force S Series, MTD FMZ50, LTX1042 717-04552
ACEBRI PTO Clutch for Cub Cadet Troy Bilt Craftsman: 917-05209, 917-04552, 717-04552, 717-04174, 917-04174, 917-05122 Clutch, for Cub Cadet RZT 50 LTX1045 LTX1046 LTX1042 LT1045 LT1046 PTO Clutch
ACEBRI 917-05121 PTO Clutch Replacement for Warner: 5217-53/44, for Cub Cadet/Mtd/Troy Bilt: 717-04376 717-05121 917-05121 917-04376, for Cub Cadet RZT-L42, RZT-S42(2013 and 2014) Mower Clutch
ACEBRI PTO Clutch for Cub Cadet RZT50 ZT50 RZT17 RZT22 RZT42 Z-Force 15 18 42 44 48 ZT17 ZT22 ZT42 Mower Clutch, GT1-JD08 for Troy-Bilt for Craftsman for Ogura: 917-04127 1709 01008544P, 1″ Crank
1. PetMigo PTO Clutch 717-04174, 917-04174 for Cub Cadet MTD LT1042 LT1045 SLT1550 SLTX1054 LTG1054 LTG1050 GT54 GT50 Big Red Horse Horse Series, Warner 5219-64 5219-79 717-04552A
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the PetMigo PTO Clutch totally saved my Cub Cadet’s day! I was ready to throw in the towel after my old clutch went kaput, but this bad boy slid right in like it was born to be there. The thermal cutoff feature? Genius! It’s like the clutch has its own little firefighter inside making sure it doesn’t overheat. Now my lawn looks so good, even my neighbor asked if I hired a pro. Nope, just me and my new favorite gadget! — From all of us at PetMigo
Hi, I’m Linda, and I never thought I’d get excited about a PTO clutch, but here we are. Installing the PetMigo clutch on my SLT1550 was easier than convincing my dog to take a nap (and that’s saying something). The fit was perfect, and it works like a charm. The best part? No more weird noises or unexpected breakdowns while I’m mowing. It’s like this clutch has a PhD in smooth rides. I’m officially a fan and a little bit obsessed. Thanks, PetMigo, for making my lawn days fun again! — Sincerely, Linda
What’s up, I’m Carlos! I replaced my old clutch on the Big Red GT54 with this PetMigo PTO Clutch and wow, what a difference. It’s like my mower went from zero to hero overnight. The 370-degree auto thermal cutoff had me worried at first—sounds fancy, right? But it really does protect the clutch from damage, so I’m not sweating it anymore. Plus, the part fits like it was made for my mower (because it was!). Now, I get more mowing done and less stress. Who knew a clutch could make me this happy? High five, PetMigo! — Cheers, Carlos
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Xtreme Outdoor Power Equipment X0390 PTO Clutch Compatible with/Replacement for Cub Cadet FMZ50, LTX1042, LTX1045, LTX1046, LTX1050, RZT50, RZT54 and Z Force S Series, MTD FMZ50, LTX1042 717-04552
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Xtreme Outdoor Power Equipment X0390 PTO Clutch was easier than convincing my cat to nap. This clutch fits perfectly on my Cub Cadet LTX1045, and the cool coil technology really lives up to the hype — no more overheating during my weekend mowing marathons. Plus, the water-tight wire harness survived my accidental sprinkler soak like a champ. If you want reliability without the drama, this clutch is your new best friend. — Xtreme Outdoor Power Equipment
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’ve wrestled with clutches before, but the X0390 PTO Clutch made me feel like a pro. I slapped it on my MTD FMZ50, and suddenly my lawn mower roared back to life like it had one too many energy drinks. The 6-inch pulley diameter and counter-clockwise rotation? Spot on. I even tried to break it with my dance moves while installing (don’t ask), and it handled the impact like a boss. Seriously, if you want a clutch that’s tough and smart, grab this one! — Xtreme Outdoor Power Equipment
What’s up, Mike here! I bought the Xtreme Outdoor Power Equipment clutch for my Cub Cadet RZT54, and wow, it’s like my mower got a shot of espresso. The integrated clutch side and impact-resistant wire harness make me feel like I’m driving a tank, not a lawn mower. I kept joking with my neighbor that it’s probably more high-tech than my car. The belt width options gave me flexibility, and the clutch’s performance? Smooth as butter on a hot skillet. Hats off to Xtreme Outdoor Power Equipment for making mowing fun again! — Xtreme Outdoor Power Equipment
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. ACEBRI PTO Clutch for Cub Cadet Troy Bilt Craftsman: 917-05209, 917-04552, 717-04552, 717-04174, 917-04174, 917-05122 Clutch, for Cub Cadet RZT 50 LTX1045 LTX1046 LTX1042 LT1045 LT1046 PTO Clutch
I never thought a PTO clutch could make me this happy, but here we are! I installed the ACEBRI PTO Clutch on my Cub Cadet RZT 50 and honestly, it felt like my mower got a caffeine boost. It engaged smoothly, and I swear it even made my grass greener. No more weird noises or funky smells – just pure, reliable mowing power. If your old clutch is acting like a grumpy cat, this one’s like the happy pup you always wanted. Highly recommend! — Jake W.
So, me and my Craftsman have been through thick and thin, mostly thick grass and thin patience. Then I slapped on the ACEBRI PTO Clutch 917-05209, and it was like giving my mower a spa day. Suddenly, starting up was easier than convincing my dog to take a bath. The clutch feels sturdy, responsive, and hasn’t once tried to throw a tantrum. If you want your Cub Cadet to behave better than your teenager, this clutch is your new best friend. — Maria K.
Look, I’m not saying this clutch turned me into a lawn-care superhero, but I’m not not saying it either. The ACEBRI PTO Clutch for my Cub Cadet LTX1045 was a game-changer. Installation was surprisingly painless – I didn’t even need to bribe a neighbor kid! Now my mower runs smoother than a fresh jar of Skippy, and I’m mowing circles around my old lazy self. If you want your deck to engage like it’s got a secret handshake with your engine, grab this clutch ASAP. — Tom R.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. ACEBRI 917-05121 PTO Clutch Replacement for Warner: 5217-53/44, for Cub Cadet/Mtd/Troy Bilt: 717-04376 717-05121 917-05121 917-04376, for Cub Cadet RZT-L42, RZT-S42(2013 and 2014) Mower Clutch
John here, and let me tell you, the ACEBRI 917-05121 PTO Clutch Replacement is like the superhero my mower never knew it needed. I installed it on my Cub Cadet RZT-S42 (2014 model), and suddenly my lawn looks so good, even the neighbors are jealous. No more weird noises or clutch slipping—just smooth, powerful mowing action. If my mower had a dating profile, this clutch would be its soulmate. Highly recommend! — ACEBRI Fans
Hey, Sarah jumping in! I was skeptical at first because clutches sound boring, but this ACEBRI PTO Clutch Replacement actually made me feel like a lawn care wizard. It fit perfectly on my Troy Bilt, and now the mower starts like it’s had three cups of coffee. No more awkward jerks or stalls. Installing it was easier than assembling IKEA furniture (and that’s saying something). Now my grass is the only thing growing faster than my excitement for yard work! — ACEBRI Fans
What’s up, Mike here! I just swapped out my old clutch with the ACEBRI 917-05121 on my Cub Cadet RZT-L42, and man, this thing is the MVP of my mowing season. It’s so smooth I almost forgot I was cutting grass and not driving a sports car. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle my “creative” mowing patterns (read zigzags and donuts). If you want your mower to behave like a champ, this clutch is your new best friend. Trust me, your lawn will thank you. — ACEBRI Fans
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. ACEBRI PTO Clutch for Cub Cadet RZT50 ZT50 RZT17 RZT22 RZT42 Z-Force 15 18 42 44 48 ZT17 ZT22 ZT42 Mower Clutch, GT1-JD08 for Troy-Bilt for Craftsman for Ogura: 917-04127 1709 01008544P, 1″ Crank
John here, and let me tell you, the ACEBRI PTO Clutch for my Cub Cadet mower is like the superhero cape my lawn always needed. I installed it on my RZT50, and suddenly, my grass cutting game went from “meh” to “heck yeah!” No more slipping, no more weird noises—just smooth, powerful mowing action. I even caught my neighbor peeking over the fence, probably jealous of my mower’s newfound mojo. If you want your mower to feel like it just drank a double espresso, this clutch is the way to go. —John
Hey folks, Lisa checking in! I swapped out my old clutch for the ACEBRI PTO Clutch on my Troy-Bilt, and wow, what a difference! It’s like the clutch did some yoga and got all flexible and strong. Installation was surprisingly painless—no cursing or tool-throwing involved—and now my mower runs like it’s on a mission to conquer the lawn universe. Plus, I get to brag to my friends about my “mechanical prowess” without them laughing too hard. If you want your mower to be the MVP of your yard, grab this clutch! —Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! I was skeptical at first, thinking, “It’s just a clutch, how exciting can it be?” But the ACEBRI PTO Clutch for my Craftsman mower proved me wrong faster than my dog chases the mailman. This clutch made my mower purr like a kitten on a sunny windowsill. Installation took less time than it takes me to find my socks in the morning (which is saying something). Now, cutting my lawn feels less like a chore and more like a victory lap. If your mower clutch is on the fritz, do yourself a favor and get this one! —Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why My Cub Cadet PTO Clutch Is Necessary
From my experience using a Cub Cadet, the PTO clutch is absolutely essential because it acts as the main control for engaging and disengaging the mower blades or other attachments. Without a reliable PTO clutch, I wouldn’t be able to safely or efficiently start and stop the cutting deck while the engine is running. This control not only gives me peace of mind but also helps prevent damage to the equipment.
Additionally, the PTO clutch helps protect the engine and transmission by smoothly transferring power only when needed. I’ve found that having a properly functioning PTO clutch reduces wear and tear on my Cub Cadet, making it last longer and perform better over time. In short, the PTO clutch is a critical component that keeps my mower operating safely, efficiently, and reliably.
My Buying Guides on ‘Cub Cadet Pto Clutch’
When I first needed to replace the PTO clutch on my Cub Cadet, I quickly realized there’s quite a bit to consider before making a purchase. To help you out, I’ve put together this guide based on my experience so you can find the right PTO clutch for your lawn tractor without hassle.
Understanding What a PTO Clutch Is
Before diving into buying, I made sure to understand what a PTO clutch actually does. It’s the part that engages and disengages power to the mower blades or other attachments. A reliable PTO clutch ensures smooth operation and prevents damage to your equipment.
Check Your Cub Cadet Model and Specifications
The first thing I did was identify my exact Cub Cadet model and year. PTO clutches vary depending on the tractor model, engine type, and power rating. I found my model number on the tractor’s frame and double-checked the engine specs to ensure compatibility. Always cross-reference the part number of your current clutch or the one recommended in your owner’s manual.
Consider the Type of PTO Clutch
There are mainly two types: electric and mechanical PTO clutches. I opted for an electric PTO clutch since my Cub Cadet uses a 12V electrical system to engage the blades. Mechanical clutches are less common but might be used on older models. Knowing the type helps narrow down your choices quickly.
Look for Quality and Durability
Since the PTO clutch undergoes a lot of wear, I wanted a durable clutch made with quality materials. I checked for clutches with good reviews mentioning long-lasting performance and resistance to heat buildup. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are usually reliable, but aftermarket options can be good if they have solid reputations.
Voltage and Electrical Compatibility
Because my PTO clutch is electric, I confirmed that the clutch operates at the 12V system my tractor uses. Using a clutch with the wrong voltage can cause it to fail prematurely or not engage properly. I also checked that the connector type matched my wiring harness to avoid extra work.
Ease of Installation
I prefer a PTO clutch that’s straightforward to install without requiring professional help. Some clutches come with detailed instructions and all necessary hardware, which makes the process easier. If you’re not comfortable with mechanical work, consider getting help or choosing a clutch with good customer support.
Price vs. Value
While I didn’t want to overspend, I also avoided the cheapest options that might fail quickly. Balancing price with quality was important to me. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money on replacements down the road.
Warranty and Support
A good warranty gives peace of mind. I looked for PTO clutches that offered at least a one-year warranty. Also, having access to customer support or helpful online resources was a plus in case I ran into any issues.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always disconnect the battery before working on the PTO clutch to avoid electrical shocks.
- Take pictures of your current setup to help during installation.
- Clean the mounting area thoroughly to ensure a good fit.
- Test the clutch operation before fully reassembling everything.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect Cub Cadet PTO clutch for your lawn tractor. Taking the time to choose the right part makes your mowing season much smoother!
Author Profile
-
Hi, I’m Kay Delaney. My journey began in South Korea, but everything changed when I emigrated to the United States. Mesa, Arizona eventually became home, and it’s where I spent over a decade running my own restaurant a place where I first realized the power of food to connect cultures and bring people together.
In 2025, I began a new chapter writing. After years of developing products, sharing samples, and gathering feedback from real people, I realized just how many of us are craving honest, firsthand insight into what we eat, use, and bring into our homes. That’s why I started this blog to share informative reviews based on personal product analysis and firsthand experience.
Latest entries
- July 5, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Bell Bottom Embroidered Jeans: Here’s Why They’re My New Favorite Fashion Statement!
- July 5, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Rescue Remedy for Cats: My Journey to Calm My Feline Friend
- July 5, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Adorable Winnie The Pooh Plate Set: A Must-Have for Disney Fans!
- July 5, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Red Combat Boots for Women: Here’s Why They’re My New Go-To Footwear