You don't say what make the engine is, but this sounds like a Briggs & Stratton diaphragm problem.
Remove carb/tank assy from engine, unhooking govenor link as you go..
Unscrew carb from tank.
Replace diaphragm/gasket
Re-assemble, taking care that govenor/throttle linkage is not binding.
phil_saunders@bigfoot.com
Phil Saunders
June 2008