Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Riding mower gas smell, kohler engine, oil level

Question
I have a LT2000 craftsmen riding mower with a 17HP Kohler engine CV490.  It seems to run fine.  However while parked in the garage there is a gas odor coming from the mower.  There are no leaks anywhere. Not on the floor not on any part of the mower.  I do find in starting the mower it seems to seize as it cranks.  After a number of trys it usually cranks and starts, but kicks out wet gasoline out the exhaust pipe and then runs fine. What is the problem?

Answer
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CHECK YOUR OIL LEVEL IMMEDIATELY!!!

It sounds like the gas is seeping past the needle and seat inside the carb (most likely due to dirt)  It is then running into the crankcase and muffler.  

You will notice your oil level is higher then normal if this is true and smells of gasoline.

The danger in running your engine like this is the oil is so thinned out by gasoline that it doesn't provide lubrication and the engine eventually is destroyed.