138971 Hi Lift 42 in Mower Blades 4-Pack - Durable High-Lift

Our review of the 138971 Hi Lift mower blades finds them best suited for owners of 42 in deck riding mowers who need a ready-to-install, value-minded replacement set. These CENHIEE blades ship as a 4-pack and match a long list of OEM part numbers, so the biggest reason to buy is straightforward compatibility: they replace common numbers such as 134149, 127843 and several 532 and 917 series parts, making them a convenient swap for Craftsman, Husqvarna and Poulan decks. The blades are heavy-duty with a black coating and a shaped high-lift profile that customers say improves grass lift and cut quality.

Key Features

• Broad compatibility: The blades cross-reference many OEM part numbers and fit numerous 42 in deck models from Craftsman, Husqvarna and Poulan, reducing the risk of ordering the wrong blade.
• High-lift profile: Curved, sharp edges create a stronger airflow that lifts grass for a cleaner cut and better bagging or mulching performance.
• Durable construction: Made of heavy-duty metal with a protective black finish, the blades resist wear and help return clippings as natural fertilizer.
• Easy installation: Pre-drilled 5-point star center holes and edge-protection coating make mounting straightforward and protect the blade hole during installation.
• Correct size: Each blade measures 21 in long by 2-1/4 in wide and 0.157 in thick, matching the dimensions of many 42 in deck OEM blades for proper balance.

Who It's For

These blades are aimed at homeowners and light commercial users with 42 in riding mowers who need a direct replacement for worn OEM blades and want a cost-effective 4-pack to service multiple machines or to keep spares on hand. They are especially useful when the existing blade part number matches any listed cross-reference such as 134149, 127843, 532138971 or the 917 series numbers.

Those who should look elsewhere include owners of decks with nonstandard center holes or lengths other than 21 in, and users requiring specialty mulching blades with unique cutting edges; always verify the 5-point star center hole and blade size before ordering.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good fit for many Craftsman, Husqvarna and Poulan 42 in deck models, minimizing returns.
• High-lift design improves grass stand-up for cleaner cuts and better clippings flow.
• Durable black-coated metal construction offers solid value for the price.

Cons

• Only one blade profile and size (21 in) included, so it is not suitable if your mower requires a different length or hole pattern.

Specifications

Product	138971 Hi Lift mower blades, 4-pack
Blade size	21 in L x 2-1/4 in W x 0.157 in Thick
Center hole	5-Point star (1 in point-to-point)
Material & finish	Heavy-duty metal with black coating
Compatible brands	Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan, Ariens and similar 42 in decks
Replaces	127843, 134149, 138498 and listed OEM cross numbers

Our Verdict

The 138971 Hi Lift 4-pack is a practical, value-focused replacement for owners of many 42 in deck riding mowers who confirm the part number and size match their machine; its high-lift profile and durable finish deliver improved cut quality and longevity without a high price. Buy this set if you need dependable replacements that fit common Craftsman, Husqvarna or Poulan models and want spares on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will these blades fit my mower?
Check your current blade part number and the 21 in length plus 5-point star center hole; the blades cross-reference many OEM numbers for Craftsman, Husqvarna and Poulan.

How do I install them?
Disconnect the spark plug and fuel valve, align the bolt holes with the deck, install with the curved ends facing the deck, and confirm rotation clearance before use.

Are these mulching blades?
They are high-lift blades designed to lift and cut grass for good clipping flow; they return clippings and can aid mulching but are not marketed as a specialized mulching blade type.