987-02516A Hinged Mulch Plug Compatible with Troy Bilt Mower TB110 TB130 TB230

What It Is

The 987-02516A Hinge Mulch Plug is a replacement part that blocks the side-discharge chute on select Troy-Bilt walk-behind mowers, forcing grass clippings back under the deck for finer mulching. It’s designed for mowers that originally came with a mulching plug but need a replacement due to wear, loss, or damage.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm your mower’s model number (not just the series). This plug fits Troy-Bilt TB110, TB130, and TB230 models—but not all sub-variants. Check the deck size: it works with 22-inch stamped steel decks common on these models. The part is an aftermarket replacement for OEM part 987-02516A. Measure the chute opening width (approx. 5.5 inches) and hinge pin hole diameter (about 3/8 inch) to ensure a snug fit. If your mower has a side-discharge chute that uses a spring-loaded latch, verify the plug’s hinge tab aligns with the latch slot. Not compatible with push mowers that use a bag-only or rear-bag system.

Key Things to Know

• Material & Build: Made from durable black plastic with a metal hinge pin. The hinge is pre-assembled—no tools needed for installation.
• Installation: Takes under 2 minutes. Lift the chute door, slide the plug into the chute opening, and snap the hinge over the latch pin. No drilling or modification required.
• Common Gotcha: The plug may rattle if the chute door spring is weak or missing. Check the spring tension before installing. Also, the hinge tab can crack if forced into a misaligned latch—ensure the plug sits flush.
• Performance: Works well for mulching dry grass up to 4 inches tall. For wet or thick grass, you’ll still need to bag or rake clumps.

Should You Buy It

If your Troy-Bilt TB110/TB130/TB230 is missing its original mulch plug or the hinge broke, this is a cheap, drop-in fix. It’s not for mowers that never had a mulching option (check your deck for a chute opening). Best for homeowners who want quick, tool-free mulching without buying a full mulching kit.