Fennoral 731-07131 987-02516A Side Discharge Chute and Hinged Mulching Plug Compatible with MTD Craftsman Troy Bilt 21" Lawn Mower

What It Is

This is a two-piece accessory set that replaces or adds a side discharge chute and a hinged mulching plug for 21-inch MTD, Craftsman, and Troy-Bilt walk-behind mowers. It lets you switch between side-discharge and mulching modes without swapping parts.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, measure your deck width—must be exactly 21 inches. Check your mower’s model number against MTD, Craftsman, or Troy-Bilt decks built after 2000. The OEM equivalents are 731-07131 (chute) and 987-02516A (plug). This will not fit older Murray, Husqvarna, or John Deere decks. Look for a single-lever or push-button height adjustment on the rear wheels—mowers with older pin-style adjustments often have different mounting holes. Confirm the chute mounting tab aligns with your deck’s hinge slot (usually on the right side).

Key Things to Know

• Quality: UV-stabilized plastic holds up to sun exposure, but the hinge pin can wear after heavy use—lubricate annually.
• Installation: No tools needed; snaps on/off in under a minute. The plug’s hinge locks into the discharge opening, and the chute clips over the deck’s tab.
• Gotcha: The mulching plug may not fully seal on decks with heavy rust or bent edges—inspect your deck’s opening first.
• Gotcha: If your mower has a rear bagger, the plug must be removed before attaching the bag—it’s not designed for simultaneous use.

Should You Buy It

If you own a 21-inch MTD, Craftsman, or Troy-Bilt mower made in the last 15 years and want a quick, tool-free way to switch between side discharge and mulching, this is a solid, budget-friendly replacement. It’s ideal for homeowners who mulch most of the season but need side discharge for tall or wet grass.