Need help with Scag TT staying running

[JamesM]

I have a 2002 Scag Turf Tiger with a 25 HP Kohler. and just recently it has developed the problem of dying right after you start it. I mean within about 3 to 5 seconds. I changed the fuel filter, pulled the carb and made sure it was clean and all gaskets were good, checked all of the safety switches but I have not found anything.
Any suggestions would be a great help as my closest dealer is about 45 min. and they said it would be about 2 weeks before they would even be able to look at it since I am not one of their larger customers. The local dealer said 4 weeks since he does not sell Scag.

Thanks in advance for your time, James

[grass_cuttin_fool]

Im thinking maybe the fuel pump is bad, maybe some one else will chime in soon with an opinion. Maybe take the fuel line of the carb and turn the engine over with the hose in a bucket ot bottle and see if it is pumping fuel. My dealer told me that the fuel pump is about the weakest link on a 20 hp kohler, they dont like water, it messes up the diaphram