731-2363 Lawn Mower Mulch Plug Compatible with CUB Cadet MTD Troy Bilt Pony Bronco 38" 42" 1515 1517 GT-2542 LT-1040 1600 2150 Lawn Mowers 190-116 7311643A GW-7311643A

What It Is

This is a mulch plug (part 731-2363) that blocks the discharge chute on your lawn mower deck, forcing grass clippings to recirculate and be cut finer for mulching. It’s designed for select Cub Cadet, MTD, and Troy-Bilt lawn tractors with 38" or 42" decks.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, measure your deck’s discharge opening width and confirm it matches the plug’s dimensions (roughly 7" x 4" at the chute entry). This plug fits MTD-built models including Cub Cadet LT-1040, 1515, 1517, 1600, 2150; Troy-Bilt Pony and Bronco; and GT-2542. It’s a direct replacement for OEM parts 190-116, 7311643A, and GW-7311643A. Do not assume fit based on brand alone—check your mower’s model number (found under the seat or on the frame) against the seller’s compatibility list. This plug is not universal; it won’t work on decks with a spring-loaded chute door or different chute geometry.

Key Things to Know

• Quality concerns: 3.0/5 rating suggests inconsistent fit or durability. Some users report it’s slightly loose or requires trimming to seal properly.
• Installation: Usually a 5-minute job—slide the plug into the discharge chute and secure with the existing latch or a included pin. No tools needed.
• Common gotcha: If your deck has a rubber flap or deflector, you may need to remove it first. Also, mulching requires sharp blades and dry grass—this plug alone won’t give good results with dull blades or wet clippings.
• Aftermarket vs OEM: This is an aftermarket part. OEM versions may cost more but often fit tighter. Check return policy before buying.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if you have a compatible MTD/Cub Cadet/Troy-Bilt tractor with a 38" or 42" deck, want a cheap way to convert to mulching, and don’t mind a slightly imperfect fit. Skip it if you need a precise OEM seal or have a deck with a non-standard chute—look for the genuine Cub Cadet part instead.