Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): kohler choke, john deere lawnmower, kohler engine

Question
I have a '79 john deere lawnmower w/ a kohler engine and it will not run with out the choke on. It also will not start unless I put my hand over the intake.  Is this a carb problem? Will cleaning it solve this? How do I go about properly cleaning this? Please advise.  

Answer
Hi Keith,

The carb most likely has dirt, debris or gummed fuel inside.  You will need to remove the carb, disassemble it, clean all the small internal openings and blow it out with compressed air.   Probe each and every hole with a small wire.  A carb rebuild kit wouldn't hurt either.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael