CUB CADET 731-04651 Mulch Plug Kit 50" Deck LT LTX 1050 i1050 ZTT50 2004-2014 Lawn Mowers Tractors

What It Is

The CUB CADET 731-04651 Mulch Plug Kit blocks the side-discharge chute on 50-inch decks, forcing grass clippings to recirculate for finer mulching. Designed for residential Cub Cadet and MTD-built lawn tractors (2004–2014 models), it replaces the factory discharge cover to improve mulching performance.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, verify three things:

• Deck size: Only fits 50-inch decks. Measure your deck’s cutting width—this plug will not work on 42-inch, 46-inch, or 54-inch decks.
• Model year and series: Confirmed for Cub Cadet LT, LTX 1050, i1050, and ZTT50 (zero-turn) tractors made from 2004 through 2014. Also fits select MTD Gold, Yard-Man, and Yard Machines models with the same 50" stamped deck.
• OEM vs aftermarket: This is the genuine Cub Cadet part (OEM #731-04651). Aftermarket versions (e.g., Rotary 13024) cost less but may have looser fit or thinner steel. Always check the current deck shape—some 2010+ decks use a different chute design.

Key Things to Know

• Installation: Simple bolt-on job—remove the factory side-discharge chute, attach the plug with the supplied hardware. No cutting or drilling required. Allow 15–20 minutes.
• Quality: Sturdy stamped steel with a powder-coat finish. The rubber seal along the edges is adequate but can warp in heat over time. A few users report needing to bend the mounting tabs slightly for a snug fit on older decks.
• Common gotcha: The plug will not work if your deck has a separate mulch baffle kit already installed—those use a different chute cover. Also, the plug reduces side-discharge airflow; if you bag or want to switch between modes, keep the original chute handy.
• Performance: Improves mulching noticeably, but very thick or wet grass may still clump. For best results, mow at a higher deck setting and cut less than 1/3 of the grass height per pass.

Should You Buy It

If you own a compatible 50-inch Cub Cadet tractor (2004–2014) and want to switch from side-discharge to mulching without buying a full mulching kit, this plug is a solid, budget-friendly option. It’s not perfect for heavy-duty or commercial use, but for residential lawns it works well—just be prepared to clean under the deck more often.