When it comes to the statement "the engine just stopped" that's a very open statement. I guess since we are talking about hover auto, 1 second is a long time. One of my instructors who had a lot of experience told me that most likely the engine would quit like you just slowly start to roll off the throttle all the way in a firm way. Should take about 1-2 seconds to roll it off. Then you have the instant snap off, which is to roll off as quickly as you can. Also much more tricky to catch.
When I instructed I just to start with the roll off firmly, and then gradualy faster until it is done in a fast snap. Also good to vary between them, because I assume every engine failure is different
Don't understand how Govenor on/off is a problem? I always leave govenor on. If engine kicks in, means you haven't closed the throttle enough.
Highly recomend to use gloves in the R22, makes life much easier.
Cheers