Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Governor Replacement on B&S 20hp OHV Intek, craftsman lawn tractor, tune ups


Question
I had a Sears repairman come to diagnose engine not starting on my Craftsman lawn tractor Model No 917.272440.  It has B&S 20 hp OHV Intek engine Model No. 407777-0121-E5.  Before it died it raced at high RPM and when I pulled throttle down it had no effect.  I shut off with key within a few seconds to get it to stop.  After that it wouldn't start.  After initial trouble shooting mechanic pulled off valve covers and saw push rods out of place.  He put them back on and started engine and it raced at high RPM again.  He said the governor was shot and it could have damaged the engnine.  I am hoping the engine is still ok considering it ran once he put the push rods back on and it only ran at this high RPM for a few seconds.  I am considering replacing the parts myself to save the expense of having Sears mechanic do it for me (~$480).  The IPL from B&S website isn't very helpful when it comes to locating the governor.  So, after long intro, I have three questions.  1) Is this worth repairing--that is, will I find the engine damaged beyond repair?  2) Is it repairable by me? 3) If yes to the first two, where is the governor located--that is, what do I start pulling apart to get to it?  I'm fairly mechanically inclined with a good set of tools.  I've worked on my cars (brakes, axles, tune ups, etc.), but small engine repair isn't something I've really tackled to date.  Thanks in advance for all your help.  Have a fantastic day!

Answer
 Hello Gary

 The Governor is located Inside the Engine. Did the Mechanic make sure the Governor Control Arm didn't work loose. If so and you feel you can go inside the Engine with little trouble then I will be glad to Assist you.  It isnt that hard to replace if you are Mechanically inclined.  Remove the Engine from the Frame and Remove the Pulley from The Crankshaft.  Then get in touch with me and we can start from there.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

John