Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): engine, full blast, full throttle

Question
can you run a the mower revved up to high?  my husband says it is to hard on the govern. my son/n/law runs the riding mower full blast!

Answer
Running a mower at full throttle will not hurt it. That is the purpose of the governor. However, if the governor is not working properly, or the governor spring is worn or missing, and the motor is over-revving, then damage will result. Most motors are set to run at or around 3500 rpm.
If it is in fact over-revving, then you should have it check as soon as possible.