Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Kohler 26 hp cuts off, motor model, cleaning machine

Question
We have a Sears mower with a Kohler 26 hp  V-twin motor, model CV730S, Spec no. CV 730-0043.  We were unable to get it started a while back and have since cleaned the carburetor and installed kit, replaced plug, fuel filter, accelerator pump kit, fuel pump.  We found that the carburetor will run if you pour a little gas into it, but cuts off when the gas is gone.  We also got it to run for a short time one time by manually holding the choke closed.  Also, when we removed the carburetor, we had 2 gaskets between the carburetor and the intake -- is that right or is it an assembly mistake?  We have now taken all gas out of the tank and intend to fill with new gas, but it doesn't seem that would be the problem since it runs if you pour gas directly into the carburetor.  It has done this before we installed the carb kit and still does the same.  Can you help?  thanks.

Answer
You have the same problem 90% of all consumers have when they try to save money and do carburetor work on their own. Your carb is still at fault here. It's not enough to just clean where you can see, and put the kit parts into it. There are a number of fuel paths and fuel circuits inside the carb, where you can see them, and seldom do people know where they are or how to unblock and clean them. That's why we at the shop invested in a expensive ultrasonic parts cleaning machine. You carb has a main fuel circuit blocked. Take the carb off bring it to your local shop and they will clean it for a small fee if it's off the machine.........Tom