Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): fuel system JD Kawasaki 17hp, gas tank, cold start

Question
The engine won't cold start, fuel isn't getting to the carb.  I have been starting the lawn mower for the past year by, (now don't laugh) using my garage compressor to pressurize the gas tank, then it works fine.  I would like to fix it properly.  I suppose it is the fuel pump but before I buy one could you suggest anything else.
Thanks
Armand

Answer
Armand
yes the issue may be a fuel pump problem,I would suggest getting the carb rebuilt or at the least cleaned first.Sounds like it is starving for fuel with the low idle port and once the rpm builds up the main jet takes over to keep it running..
Thanks