I'm running a 29hp mud buddy. I wanted to run the rpms up a little on the motor so I removed the throttle spring and replaced it with a solid wire so there is no take-up or slack. My question is, by doing this am i running the risk of damaging anything? (over revving)

listen to make sure your valves don't start floatin...

It sounds fine when running higher RPMs, I assume with floating valves i would hear a miss? Also it has a bit of throttle hesitation could that be attributed to a dirty fuel filter?

I just put a new filter and gas tank and fuel lines on it, it'll run fine also with just me in the boat but when u put 3 or 2 guys with a load it'll bog down. Like it'll be screaming then just die

I have the 27 kawa. I ziptied about 2/3 of the spring. It'll turn 4770 out of water now, turns 4300 in the water. After discussing with a couple different people that have significant experience with these motors in mower racing and tractor pulling environments, they can handle around 5k with stock parts without harming them, with some parts even able to handle higher without replacing. I still won't hold it over 4500, and after engine work i plan to keep it under that with prop and gearing.

Had one on a hyper the fan came apart and tore through the radiator, check your fan if ist liquid cooled.