987-02516A Hinged Mulching Plug Assembly Compatible with Troy-Bilt TB110 TB200 TB320 Craftsman, Yard Machines Bolens Yard Man Mowers, Replace 987-02516, 687-02516A, 687-02516

What It Is

This hinged mulching plug assembly replaces the standard side-discharge chute on compatible Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and Yard Machines walk-behind mowers. It redirects grass clippings inside the deck for finer mulching, eliminating bagging or raking.

Fitment & Compatibility

Check before buying:

• Deck size: Fits 21-inch and 22-inch stamped steel decks only (not fabricated or deep-deck models).
• Model series: Troy-Bilt TB110, TB200, TB320; Craftsman 944.600xxx, 944.610xxx; Yard Machines 11A-xxx, 12A-xxx; Bolens 11A-xxx, 12A-xxx; Yard Man 11A-xxx, 12A-xxx.
• OEM cross-references: Replaces Troy-Bilt 987-02516, 687-02516A, 687-02516.
• Physical check: Measure the side-discharge opening – it must be rectangular, roughly 3” x 4”. The hinge pins on the plug must align with the two small holes on the mower deck’s discharge port.

Does NOT fit:

• Zero-turn mowers, rear-baggers, or any mower with a factory “baffle-style” mulching system.
• Craftsman 917-series (older MTD models with different deck geometry).

Key Things to Know

• Installation difficulty: Easy – remove the side-discharge chute, snap the mulching plug into the opening, and secure with the existing hinge pin (if your mower has one) or a small cotter pin (not included).
• Quality: Hinged design is durable, but the plastic can crack if overtightened or if the mower hits a rock. Check for warped hinge tabs before installing.
• Gotcha: Some Troy-Bilt TB200 models require removing a metal baffle inside the deck first – look for a single screw near the discharge opening.
• Performance: Works best with sharp blades and dry grass – wet clumps will clog the plug and leave clumps on the lawn.

Should You Buy It

If you own one of the listed mower models and want to mulch without buying a separate mulching blade kit, this $13 plug is a cheap, effective upgrade. It’s not for heavy-duty commercial use, but for a homeowner with a 21–22 inch deck, it’s a solid buy. Avoid it if your mower has a different discharge shape or if you need a full mulching kit (blade + plug).