I have a Craftsman 19.5 hp riding mower with 42'' deck, for the last few weeks it hasn't been cutting the area that falls in between the two blades and I can't seem to figure out what the deal is. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Blades bent or exceptionally dull? Assuming blades too short were not recently installed... because there really is no area between the blades (yes I have a 42" craftsman myself.)

They have been on it for 4 years, they probably could be sharpened but it's weird that it all of a sudden started doing that and it still cuts fine on the outside edges. Thanks for the help, I will sharpen the blades and see what that does.

They have been on it for 4 years, they probably could be sharpened but it's weird that it all of a sudden started doing that and it still cuts fine on the outside edges. Thanks for the help, I will sharpen the blades and see what that does.
You may not notice it on the outside edges (the path cut will be a little narrower)... but you will in the center because it normally would be cut.

4 years... its way overdue... of the blades are bent at all... replace them both. You can get them for a great price on eBay... Think I paid like $12-16 for a pair a couple months ago.

Hi,
Could be won out blades or so much debris stuck to the underside of the deck as to disrupt the air flow.
Peace,
Clarke