Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawnmower, throttle control, gas tank

Question
Hi John,
My son washed/cleaned the lawnmower with the hose and since then, the mower starts and runs but it sounds like it goes up and down up and down.  It seems like it will turn off and it does sometimes.  My husband says that he got water in the gas tank, but they have finished the gas a few time and it seems as though the water should have evaporated by now, but it has been this way since last
summer.  Should I go buy a new one or what can be done?  Please help!  Thanks a bunch.  Lucy

Answer
 Hello Lucy:

 Has the Air Filter been Removed and Dried? Is the Spring from the Governor Arm to the Throttle Control Plate Still Hooked to the Arm and Plate? The Spring is Aroung the Linkage Rod and takes up Slack in the Linkage to Prevent Engine Surging. Send me the Make Model Type and Code Numbers Off of the Engine, Please. With these Numbers I can Locate a Breakdown/IPL and Better Assist you. Thanks.