Toro Zmaster 555 hard to start when cold

[BeezFun]

It has a 25hp Kawasaki gas engine, runs great once it starts but starts very hard when cold. Starts fine when hot. I changed plug, that helps a little, but not much. Replaced fuel pump because it had a small leak, that didn't help either. Been this way since I got it new. I use stabil in the gas, run it dry in the winter, stored inside. Any ideas?
tnx

 

[DK35vince]

Sounds like the chock is not working or needs adjusted

 

[PoorMansCat]

Sounds like the chock is not working or needs adjusted

x2.... typical Kawi engine... hahahaha.. Had a Kawasaki ATV that the choke would either stick open or full closed..... finally just disconnected the stupid thing and choked it with my hand....

 

[204saskman]

could be the valves need adjusting. I have a kawasaki utv and it wouldnt start when cold but once it was going it started fine. Turned out the valves were in need of adjustment. I adjusted them and problem solved.