Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Kohler 161, intake leaks, point gap

Question
I have an old Troy Built Horse with the Kohler 7.5 horse.  Problem is it starts but will not accelerate and stalls.  Problem began gradually.  Interesting, when I bring it up to speed very very slowly it runs at full throttle.  (I think this is a key clue)  I rebuilt and adjusted carb., changed points and condenser and plug.  Still have problem.  I was thinking about pulling head and cleaning carbon and checking valves.  What do you think.  Oh, I also started engine and sprayed starter fluid in air intake, trying to trouble shoot gas issue.  Motor stalled immediately.  So I'm thinking its not a carb issue, maybe electric.  I also pulled fly wheel and cleaned all rust.  Still same problem.  Help.

Answer
I'm first assuming you checked your fuel flow to the carb from the tank, and checked the fuel filter, and air filter, if these pertain to you engine. I'm going to have to say I believe during the cleaning process something was over looked. Did you gently go through each, and every tiny little jet hole, and circuit with a tiny wire? Then spray carb cleaner in each hole, and blow out high pressurized air? People always seem to miss a hole, or two in a jet, either the low idle, or the main. Some holes in the jets are so tiny you'd never know they are there. You furnished me without any model numbers so my answers have to be a bit generic. Also make sure there are no intake leaks, or around the carb. Sometimes I like checking them with a oil squirt can, and watching for smoke out the exhaust. Sometimes carb cleaner and such goes everywhere, and can give you a false reading by it being sprayed, and it still finding it's way into the carb. Double check that point gap too, make sure it's all the way on the high spot of the cam when checking it with the feeler gauge.......Tom