Comparison: Best Mulching Lawn Mower Side Discharge (Updated | Oct 14th)

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When maintaining a healthy, vibrant lawn, choosing the right mulching lawn mower with side-discharge capability is essential. A quality mulching mower recycles grass clippings into nutrient-rich mulch, while the side-discharge feature allows for versatility in managing thicker grass or clearing leaves. This comparison explores top-performing models, highlighting their cutting efficiency, durability, and ease of use to help you make an informed decision. Whether prioritizing eco-friendly lawn care or adaptability in varying conditions, understanding key features and performance differences ensures you select the ideal mower for your needs.

Editor’s Choice

PowerSmart 21 in. Gas Lawn Mower with 144cc OHV Engine


PowerSmart 21 in. Gas Lawn Mower with 144cc OHV Engine

Best overall

Best for a specific purpose

Product Comparison: Best Mulching Lawn Mower Side Discharge

Budget pick

LIZEWEI 731-07486 Side Discharge Chute & 987-02516A Hinged Mulching Plug Assembly Compatible with Troy-Bilt Columbia, Craftsman, Huskee and MTD 11A, 12A Series Lawn Mower with 21" Deck

LIZEWEI 731-07486 Side Discharge Chute & 987-02516A Hinged Mulching Plug Assembly Compatible with Troy-Bilt Columbia, Craftsman, Huskee and MTD 11A, 12A Series Lawn Mower with 21" Deck

LIZEWEI
  • Replaces Part Number: Hinged Mulching Plug Assembly Replaces 687-02516, 68702516, 98702516; Side Discharge Chute Replaces 731-07486
  • Compatible with Troy-Bilt Lawn Mower: TB100, TB105, TB110, TB120, TB220, TB230, TB240, TB130, TB140, TB200, TB210.
  • 987-02516A Hinged Mulching Plug Assembly Compatible with Craftsman 247377300, 247377441, 247377450, 247377440, 247378330, 247376830, 247370160, 247370480, 24737119, 24738912, 24738914, 247393770, 247393780, 247393790, 24738913 lawn mower models
  • 987-02516A Hinged Mulching Plug Assembly Compatible with Craftsman 24737000, 247370000, 247370001, 24737010, 247370100, 247370101, 24737031, 247370310, 247370311, 24737034, 247370340, 247370341 lawn mower models
  • 731-07486 Side Discharge Chute fits 24738911, 24737110, 24738908, 24737034, 24738903, 24737037, 24737000, 247370000, 247370001, 24737010, 247370100, 247370101, 24737031, 247370310
  • 731-07486 Side Discharge Chute fits 247370311, 247370340, 247370341, 247370370, 247370371, 247370960, 24737111, 24737116, 24737117, 24737118, 24737124, 24737125, 24737126, 247372180 & More

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Improved design

SevnYoko 731-07131 & 987-02516A Lawn Mower Side Discharge Chute & Hinged Mulch Plug Assembly – Compatible with MTD, Craftsman, Troy Bilt 21" Deck Push Mowers – Fits TB110, TB130, TB200, TB230

SevnYoko 731-07131 & 987-02516A Lawn Mower Side Discharge Chute & Hinged Mulch Plug Assembly - Compatible with MTD, Craftsman, Troy Bilt 21" Deck Push Mowers - Fits TB110, TB130, TB200, TB230

SevnYoko
  • Perfect Fitment – This 731-07131 Side Discharge Chute & 987-02516A Hinged Mulch Plug Assembly is a direct replacement for MTD, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, Columbia, Huskee, and Yard Machines 21-inch hand-pushed lawn mowers. Compatible with models such as TB110, TB130, TB200, TB230, SC100, SC500HW, and more. Please verify your model before purchasing.
  • OEM Replacement – Replaces part numbers 731-07131, 731-7131 for the discharge chute and 987-02516A, 987-02516 for the mulch plug. Designed to match the original specifications for a precise fit and reliable performance.
  • Improved Lawn Care – The side discharge chute directs grass clippings away from the mower, preventing clogging and keeping your lawn looking neat. The mulch plug cuts grass into finer pieces, returning nutrients to the soil for a healthier lawn.
  • Well-Built Construction – Made from high-quality materials that resist impact and outdoor exposure. Designed to handle frequent mowing use and maintain performance throughout the season.
  • Quick & Easy Installation – Simple plug-and-use design allows for fast installation. Just lift the mulch cover, insert the chute or plug, and secure it—no additional tools required. Perfect for DIY replacements.

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Extensive compatibility

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

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

Fennoral
  • Side Discharge Chute and Hinged Mulching Plug Replaces 731-07131 987-02516A
  • Package Contain 1 X Side Discharge Chute 1 X Hinged Mulching Plug Assembly, The product contains all the accessories shown in the picture.
  • Compatible with MTD TB260 (12AVB29Q766) (2011), TB260 (12AVB29Q711) (2011), TB250 (12AVA29Q766) (2010), TB250 (12AVA29Q711) (2010), TB230 (12AVB26N211) (2011), TB230 (12AVB26N211) (2010), TB230 (12AVB26M066) (2011), TB230 (12AVB26M066) (2010), TB230 (12AVB26M011) (2011), TB230 (12AVB26M011) (2010), TB280ES (12AGA26E011) (2012), TB280ES (12AGA26E011) (2011), TB270ES (12AEA29M211) (2010), TB270ES (12AEA29L066) (2010), TB270ES (12AEA29L011) (2010).
  • Also Compatible with MTD TB350XP (12AKD39C211) (2011), TB350XP (12AKD39B066) (2011), TB350XP (12AKD39B011) (2011), TB330XP (12AKC39C211) (2011), TB330XP (12AKC39B066) (2011), TB330XP (12AKC39B011) (2011), TB320 (2013)(12AVC35U766), TB320 (2013)(12AVC35U711), TB280ES (12AGA26G711-2013), TB280ES (12AGA26G711-2012)
  • Compatible with Troy-Bilt Model: TB110, TB130, TB115, TB120, TB105, TB130, TB 130 XP, TB280, TB210, TB230, TB260, TB280ES, TB330XP, TB350XP, TB200, TB250, TB350XP, TB320,TB330, TB360, TB220, TB240, TB340, TB360, TB370, TB380ES, TB 270 ES, TB 370 XP, TB 240, TB 450 XP, TB 410 XP, TB 490 XP, TB 370, TB1100, TB 430 XP ,TB 390 ES

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Multi-brand fit

ZHONGXIA 987-02516A Hinged Mulching Plug Assembly & 731-07486 Side Discharge Chute Compatible with MTD, Craftsman, Tr-oy Bilt, Yard Man 21" Chute Lawn Mower/Tractor

ZHONGXIA 987-02516A Hinged Mulching Plug Assembly & 731-07486 Side Discharge Chute Compatible with MTD, Craftsman, Tr-oy Bilt, Yard Man 21" Chute Lawn Mower/Tractor

ZHONGXIA
  • Part Number: 987-02516A, 987-02516, 687-02516, 68702516, 98702516, 731-07486, 73107486
  • Compatible with Troy-Bilt : TB100, TB105, TB110, TB140, TB120, TB200, TB210, TB220, TB240, TB130, TB230
  • Compatible with MTD: 11A-A2S57, 12A-ABE7, 11A-AX7, 12A-AM57, 11A-BS57, 11A-BBL7, 11A-BBL765
  • Compatible with CUB CADET: SC300, SC300IP, SC300E, SC500, SC500E, SC500EQ, SC500EZ, SC500Z, SC100, SC100H, SC700E, SC700H, SC700, SC100HW, SC300HW, SC500HW
  • Compatible with Yard Man: 11A-549Q755 (2008), 11A-549P713 (2004), 11A-435D701 (2004), 11A-439R401 (2003), 11A-435A701 (2006), 11A-439Q755 (2006), 11A-435D701 (2005), 11B-439Q755 (2007), 11A-54MB055 (2007), 11A-435D401 (2003), 11A-54MY255 (2007), 12B-569Q755 (2007), 12AE46JA001 (2008), 12A-568Q701 (2005), 12A-568Q755 (2005), 12AV566M055 (2008), 12AV566N255 (2008), 12AE469D755 (2006), 12AE46M3001 (2008), 12A-569Q701 (2006), 12A-569Q755 (2006)
  • Compatible with Craftsman Mower Models: 247372370, 247370310, 247370311, 24737034, 24737000, 247370000, 247370001, 24737010, 24738520, 247385290, 24738903, 24738908, 247370100, 247370101, 24737031, 247370340, 247370341, 24737037, 247370370, 247370371, 247370960, 247374860, 247374900, 247375900, 247375910, 24737111, 24737116, 24737117, 24737126, 247372180
  • Kit Includes: 987-02516A Hinged Mulching Plug and 731-07486 Lawn Mower Side Chute

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Best budget

Lawn Mower 731-07486 Side Discharge Chute for Most 21" Hand-Pushed Lawn Mower Compatible with Craftsman Columbia Huskee Troy-Bilt Yard-Man MTD TB110, TB130, TB220, TB230 & 11A, 12A Series Mowers

Lawn Mower 731-07486 Side Discharge Chute for Most 21" Hand-Pushed Lawn Mower Compatible with Craftsman Columbia Huskee Troy-Bilt Yard-Man MTD TB110, TB130, TB220, TB230 & 11A, 12A Series Mowers

DECKMAN
  • Replacement Part: 731-07486. The product does not come with the screw, please recycle the screws from the old part and reuse it with our new replacement. Size: Lawn Mower Side Discharge The length of the hypotenuse of the Chute is 11 inches and the height is 3.4 inches. See Figures 2
  • Compatible with Craftsman Columbia Huskee Troy-Bilt Yard-Man MTD Brand
  • Compatible with Model: 11A-A23N011, 11A-A23N066, 11A-A23O211, 11A-A23O711, 11A-A23O766, 11A-A26M011, 11A-A26M066, 11A-A26N211, 11A-B22J766, 11A-B29Q711, 11A-B29Q766, 12AVB22J766 & More
  • Compatible with Model: 24738911, 24737110, 24738908, 24737034, 24738903, 24737037, 24737000, 247370000, 247370001, 24737010, 247370100, 247370101, 24737031, 247370310, 247370311, 247370340, 247370341, 247370370, 247370371, 247370960, 24737111, 24737116, 24737117, 24737118, 24737124, 24737125, 24737126, 247372180 & More
  • Excellent customer service: no matter when, if you have any questions, feel free to contact us, we will provide you with assistance, before buying, please double check your product serial number and the size is suitable, to avoid wasting your valuable time

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Wide model support

731-07131 987-02516A Side Discharge Chute and Hinged Mulching Plug Compatible with MTD Craftsman Lawn Mower. for TB110, TB130, TB200, TB230. Replace 731-7131 987-02516

731-07131 987-02516A Side Discharge Chute and Hinged Mulching Plug Compatible with MTD Craftsman Lawn Mower. for TB110, TB130, TB200, TB230. Replace 731-7131 987-02516

LIZEWEI
  • Replaces Part Number / Alternative model: 731-07131 987-02516A
  • Product Information: Product included 1 X Side Discharge Chute and Hinged Mulching Plug Please refer to the pictures for product specific size information
  • Compatible with Troy-Bilt Model: TB110, TB130, TB115, TB120, TB105, TB130, TB 130 XP, TB280, TB210, TB230, TB260, TB280ES, TB330XP, TB350XP, TB200, TB250, TB350XP, TB320,TB330, TB360, TB220, TB240, TB340, TB360, TB370, TB380ES, TB 270 ES, TB 370 XP, TB 240, TB 450 XP, TB 410 XP, TB 490 XP, TB 370, TB1100, TB 430 XP ,TB 390 ES
  • Compatible with Lawn mower: TB210 (12A-A25U211) (2012), TB210 (12A-A25S066) (2012), TB210 (12A-A25S011) (2012), TB130 (11A-B29Q766) (2012), TB130 (11A-B29Q766) (2011), TB130 (11A-B29Q711) (2012), TB130 (11A-B29Q711) (2011), TB230 (12AVB25U211) (2012), TB230 (12AVB25S066) (2012)
  • Also Compatible With MTD TB350XP (12AKD39C211) (2011), TB350XP (12AKD39B066) (2011), TB350XP (12AKD39B011) (2011), TB330XP (12AKC39C211) (2011), TB330XP (12AKC39B066) (2011), TB330XP (12AKC39B011) (2011), TB320 (2013)(12AVC35U766), TB320 (2013)(12AVC35U711), TB280ES (12AGA26G711-2013), TB280ES (12AGA26G711-2012)

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Universal fit

palart 731-07486 Lawn Mower Side Discharge Chute fits Most Hand-Pushed Lawn Mower Compatible with Craftsman Columbia Huskee Troy-Bilt Yard-Man MTD

palart 731-07486 Lawn Mower Side Discharge Chute fits Most Hand-Pushed Lawn Mower Compatible with Craftsman Columbia Huskee Troy-Bilt Yard-Man MTD

palart
  • Replacement part number:731-07486
  • Including:A Side Discharge Chute.The product does not come with the screw, please recycle the screws from the old part and reuse it with our new replacement.
  • Universal Fit: Compatible with most hand-pushed lawn mowers, including Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Mtd, Troy Bilt, Columbia, and Huskii models
  • Compatibile For Craftsman:24738911, 24737110, 24738908, 24737034, 24738903, 24737037, 24737000, 247370000, 247370001, 24737010, 247370100, 247370101, 24737031, 247370310, 247370311, 247370340, 247370341, 247370370, 247370371, 247370960, 24737111, 24737116, 24737117, 24737118, 24737124, 24737125, 24737126, 247372180 & More 
  • Compatibile For Troy-Bilt :TB110,TB130,TB1100
  • Compatibile For MTD 21":11A-A00X799, 11A-A03P799, 11A-A08X099, 11A-A0BR799, 11A-A0MA799, 11A-A0SD799, 11A-A24T055, 11A-A24Z255, 11A-A25E099, 11A-A25F299,11A-A25F799, 11A-A25G099, 11A-A25H299, 11A-A2A5799, 11A-A2BX799,11A-B03R799, 11A-B05E099, 11A-B0BS799, 11A-B21E099, 11A-B21K799,11A-B25E099, 11A-B25F299, 11A-B25F799, 11A-B25G099, 11A-B25H299,11A-B25N799, 11A-B26T799, 11A-B28S799, 11A-B2B2799, 11A-B2BW799,11A-B2BX799, AND MORE

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Reliable parts

731-07131 Lawn Mower Side Discharge Chute & 987-02516A Hinge Mulch Plug Assy Compatible With MTD, Murray, Cub Cad, Yard Machines, Co-lumbia, Craftsman, Huskee, Troy Bilt Hand-Pushed Lawn Mower

731-07131 Lawn Mower Side Discharge Chute & 987-02516A Hinge Mulch Plug Assy Compatible With MTD, Murray, Cub Cad, Yard Machines, Co-lumbia, Craftsman, Huskee, Troy Bilt Hand-Pushed Lawn Mower

ZHONGXIA
  • 731-07131 Lawn Mower Side Chute Part Number 731-7131 731-07131 / 987-02516A Hinged Mulch Plug Part Number 687-02516, 687-05216A, 978-02516
  • Product included 1 X 731-07131 Lawn Mower Side Chute and 1 X 987-02516A Hinged Mulch Plug
  • Compatible with Craftsman: 247377450, 247377440, 247377300, 247377441, 247378330
  • Compatible with CUB CADET: SC100, SC500HW, SC500Z, SC300E, SC300HW, SC300IP, SC700, SC100H, SC700E, SC500, SC500E, SC500EQ, SC500EZ, SC700H, SC100HW, SC300
  • Compatible with Troy Bilt Lawn mower: TB110, TB130, TB115, TB120, TB105, TB130, TB 130 XP, TB280, TB210, TB230, TB260, TB 240,TB 450 XP, TB 410 XP, TB280ES, TB330XP, TB350XP, TB200, TB250, TB 270 ES, TB 370 XP, TB350XP, TB 490 XP, TB 370, TB1100, TB 430 XP ,TB 390 ESTB320, TB330, TB360, TB220, TB240, TB340, TB360, TB370, TB380ES
  • Compatible With MTD: ME21550, ME21625, TB350XP (12AKD39C211) (2011), TB350XP (12AKD39B066) (2011), TB350XP (12AKD39B011) (2011), TB330XP (12AKC39C211) (2011), TB320 (2013)(12AVC35U711), TB280ES (12AGA26G711-2013), TB280ES (12AGA26G711-2012), TB330XP (12AKC39B066) (2011), TB330XP (12AKC39B011) (2011), TB320 (2013)(12AVC35U766)

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Best overall

PowerSmart 21 in. Gas Lawn Mower with 144cc OHV Engine, 2-in-1 Push Mower with Mulching & Side-Discharge

PowerSmart 21 in. Gas Lawn Mower with 144cc OHV Engine, 2-in-1 Push Mower with Mulching & Side-Discharge

PowerSmart
  • High Efficiency: Equipped with a high-performance 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine and a auto choke for easy starter, delivers reliable power and efficiency.
  • 2-IN-1 Steel Deck: All-steel deck built to last, combine mulch and side-discharge capabilities.
  • 21" Blade: The 21" heavy-duty cutting blade delivers better cutting effect, allowing you to mow more in less time.
  • Adjustable Cutting Height: 6-positions dual-lever height adjustment allows you to choose your cut from 1.5" to 3.9".
  • Easy to Store: Compact design saves 70% storage space, making it more convenient to unfold and use.
  • High Rear Wheels: Durable 10-inch rear wheels and 7-inch front wheels are designed for easy, smooth mowing with less efforts.

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Premium build

AOIT MTD Craftsman Lawn Mower Discharge Chute & Mulching Plug Kit 731-07131 Side Chute, 987-02516A Hinged Plug | Fits TB110 TB130 TB230 Models

AOIT MTD Craftsman Lawn Mower Discharge Chute & Mulching Plug Kit 731-07131 Side Chute, 987-02516A Hinged Plug | Fits TB110 TB130 TB230 Models

AOIT
  • 【Replace Part Numbers】731-07131, 731-7131 side discharge chute & 987-02516A, 987-02516 hinged mulching plug assembly.
  • 【Compatible Models】Compatible with MTD ME21550, ME21625, 12AVB2RQ719, 11A-B29V897, 11A-B29V897, Craftsman 247377300, 247378330, 247377441, 247377450, 247377440, Cub Cad et SC 100, SC 100 HW, SC 300, SC 500, SC 500HW, SC 500EQ, SC 700, Yard Man 11A-549Q755 (2008), 11A-54MB055 (2007), 11A-435D401 (2003), 11A-54MY255 (2007), Troy-Bilt TB110, TB130, TB210, TB230, TB280ES, TB330XP, TB350XP and more. Please check the description below to ensure this product will fit your models.
  • 【Function】The discharge chute is mounted to the side of the mower, aiming to prevent the cut grass from heaping up while the mulch plug works to slice grass into small pieces that refertilize the lawn, which is suitable for side-discharge 21-inch walk-behind, push and self-propelled mowers.
  • 【Easy to Install】Simply lift up the mulch plug cover and align the chute hooks under the mulching cover bar, the cover will hold the chute in place, you can install it in just a few minutes.
  • 【Package Include】1pcs side discharge chute, 1pcs hinged mulching plug assembly, 1pcs torsion spring and 1pcs hinge pin. Please be aware that thread is not included in our attachment kit, kindly use the original part if you need a threaded one.

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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Buying Guide

Buying Guide: Best mulching lawn mower side discharge

Compatibility

  • Verify compatibility with your mower model before purchasing
  • Check part numbers to ensure exact fit
  • Confirm brand-specific compatibility (e.g., Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, MTD)

Design & Functionality

  • Look for dual-functionality (mulching plug + side discharge chute)
  • Ensure secure attachment mechanisms (hooks, springs, pins)
  • Check for universal fit or model-specific design

Installation

  • Prioritize tools-free, DIY-friendly designs
  • Confirm included hardware (springs, pins, screws)
  • Check if screws must be reused from old parts

Performance

  • Evaluate grass clipping management (side discharge vs. mulching efficiency)
  • Ensure durable construction for frequent use
  • Check for clog-prevention features in chute design

Brand & Support

  • Choose reputable brands with verified OEM replacements
  • Look for detailed compatibility lists in product descriptions
  • Confirm customer service responsiveness for fitment questions

FAQs

What is the primary function of these products?

These products convert lawn mowers to side-discharge or mulching modes.

Are these compatible with most 21"hand-pushed mowers?

Yes, several models specify compatibility with most 21"hand-pushed lawn mowers.

Which product includes both a side discharge chute and mulching plug?

All listed products except B0C7VMVKPF and B0CYZYMTRG include both components.

Is there a model specifically designed for MTD/Craftsman mowers?

Yes, B0C7VMVKPF is an MTD/Craftsman-specific discharge chute and mulching plug kit.

Do these products work with gas-powered mowers?

Yes, B0CYZYMTRG is a gas-powered mower with built-in 2-in-1 functionality.

Which product is a complete mower, not just attachments?

B0CYZYMTRG is a gas-powered lawn mower with integrated side-discharge/mulching features.

Are universal-fit options available?

Yes, B098WZ18T7 and B0D2MQ8XF8 are labeled as universal-fit side-discharge chutes.

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