I have a mtd with front tine tillers that shows built in 1996 model number
216-390-000 and have not been able to get any parts for it from any of the
Parts web sites. Do you have any suggestions?
Thanks

Was this one of the sites you tried? BUYMTDONLINE.COM - MTD Genuine Factory Parts, accessories and attachments for all MTD brands including Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man, Yard Machines, Bolens, White Outdoor, McCulloch, Huskee and Arnold

There is also a diagram and parts at Parts & Accessories | Shop & Find Lawn & Garden, Appliance Parts at Sears Parts Direct | SearsPartsDirect.com from Sears

MTD has been bothersome right now. Even if parts are not avaiable from MTD, there may be an aftermarket source to tap. MTD and Searspartsdiirect will not tap those sources.