Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftsman garden tractor, speed jet, gas filter

Question
I have a craftsman garden tractor 46" deck, model 917.272960, 4 years old.  Problem is it will start and run as long as you keep it in choke.  When you cut the choke, it stalls and won't start unless it's back on full choke.  Just seems like it isn't getting gas.  

I have replaced the gas filter, fuel pump, spark plugs, air cleaner, drained gas and tank and put new gas in, carburetor appears to be ok but I haven't removed it.  

Any thoughts?  

Answer
Is this your engine?  ENGINE KOHLER MODEL NO. CV20S-65561

If so, check the fuel pump vacuumm line, if it has one.

If the fuel pump is built built into the carburetor, then your problem has to be inside the carburetor.  The fixed high speed jet carburetors are very sensative to any debris within the fuel system.  I would suspect a carburetor malfunction.  You will need to remove, disassemlble and clean the carburetor with compressed air and carburetor cleaner.

Let me know if you have any other questions.
Eric