Well engine model number might help. You can probably download a free Service Manual for your engine at - http://www.mymowerparts.com/pdf/

Walt Conner

Thanks much. I got the manual downloaded and it tells me how to replace the governor (a big job on this vtek twin it seems). However, it doesn't give me much on deciding if that's the problem or not. I don't want to go tearing into it unless I have a good idea that's what needs fixing. Would a faulty gov cause my engine to rev really high and not slow down, even when I use the throttle?

Sounds to me like what you are calling the 'throttle'
is no longer connected, (broken cable?).
You've got to get down there and observe what is opening
the throttle 'plate' when this is happening.
A linkage issue, I'm pretty sure.

You still have not posted the model number of your engine and what you are giving does not mean diddley.

The throttle plate screws MAY have come out so throttle plate has no control.

Walt Conner

All you can really do is confirm no outside issues. If you can slow the thing down by operating the linkage by hand, and all looks well, and you verify the static governor adjustment. . .If all goes well outside, you have to go inside and have a look.