Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Kawasaki FD750D wont stay running, electric fuel pump, volt power

Question
I have a Scag Cougar SCR52-27KA with the 27hp motor. It was running fine, but after sitting for a month or so, I cannot start it normally, but when I pour some fuel down the carb throat, it will run for a bit. The electric fuel pump seems OK (I am getting the fuel by disconnecting the fuel line at the carb top and turning the key to shoot some into the intake. When I crank it for a few seconds, it will catch and run, but when the fuel that I put in runs out, it quits. Clearly it is not getting fuel through the normal carb action. Should I take the carb off and apart, and try to clean it out, or is there something else that I can look for and try before doing that? There is no fuel coming out of the overflow when the key is on, so I am guessing that the float is at least shutting that off. Not sure what the solenoid in the bottom of the fuel bowl is for. Also, all linkage seems to be working as expected (choke opens and closes, motor runs slower with throttle on, fast with it off.)

Answer
If no gas is coming through at all, the first thing I would check is the solenoid. You should hear it click or feel it click when you turn the key to the on position. If the solenoid is working, you probably have to take the carb off and clean it. If it isn't clicking, before buying a new one, make sure you check all connections and check for 12 volt power and a good ground to the solenoid.