I have a JD LT-155 w/ Kohler engine. I have been having problems starting. The last time I started it to mow, I had to use starting fluid.

That was a several of weeks ago. I had read somewhere that the Kohler engine would have problem starting cold if the choke was not closing completely. This weekend when doing something else, I pulled the air cleaner off and put my finger down the carburetor throat to see if I could feel the Choke. I could not but found gasoline in the bottom part of the throat, ie it is "L" shaped with the bottom of the "L" going into the carburetor. The gas was on the bottom of the "L"

Is this normal? If not what could be causing it.

PS: using a flashlight it appeared the choke was closing properly.