Craftsman Mower Blade Bolt Torque Specs

Craftsman T-series lawn tractors (built by MTD or Husqvarna depending on year) use either a 5/8" or 15/16" bolt — confirm year before sourcing. Walk-behind self-propelled use 13/16".

What torque should I use on a Craftsman blade bolt?

Craftsman blade bolt torque is typically 35–55 ft-lb on a 5/8" socket with 7/16"-20 UNF thread. Threadlocker: Not required; some MTD-built models call for it on second install. Always confirm the exact figure for your specific model — deck design, blade thickness, and spindle stack-up move the spec by 10–20 ft-lb between models in the same brand line.

Craftsman T110 (Lawn Tractor, 42" Deck) blade bolt torque

45–55 ft-lb on a 5/8" socket, 7/16"-20 UNF thread. MTD-built. Single-bolt blade with star washer.

Craftsman M105 21" Push Mower blade bolt torque

35–45 ft-lb on a 13/16" socket, 3/8"-24 UNF thread. Check thread direction before loosening. Some 2008–2012 units are left-hand.

Pro tip for Craftsman blade service

Craftsman walk-behind mowers built before 2010 commonly use a LEFT-hand thread blade bolt — check direction on the bolt head or operator manual before applying force.

Step-by-step Craftsman blade-bolt reinstall

Disconnect the spark plug, engage parking brake, tip the mower (carb-side up). Block the blade with a 2×4 — never your hand. Use a 1/2" drive breaker bar with a 6-point socket. Clean threads with brake cleaner. Apply Not required; some MTD-built models call for it on second install. Torque in one smooth pull with a calibrated torque wrench. Re-check after first hour of cutting.

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