As I recall the 185 John Deere has one lever, Throttle and choke all in one. When you push the lever pass the fast setting, (may have a picture of a rabbit), it will start to close the choke. By taking the air cleaner off you should be able to see a flapper valve at the point where air air goes into the carburetor. This valve should close when you push the throttle pass the fast setting and open when you push the lever down.