for what its worth,
I spilled soda (sucrotic, caffeinated, dark, acid) on my Husky (C760)
and ended up with similar results to the original poster.
Immediately (at least, as soon as I discovered it; could have been an hour later)
removed power sources. I soaked it in distilled water for ~ 30m,
and then another soak in a fresh bucket of water for ~ 30m, then let dry
for ~ 72 hours with a fan blowing over it to keep airflow high.
Screen failure; the rest of the Zaurus appeared to be okay.
I tried disassembling and cleaning the contacts but it appeared that
the cable connecting the screen to the Z may have been damaged (corroded)
or otherwise non-functional.
I ended up selling the Husky to an OESF member for way too much money;
he reported that it continued to work more or less, screen-less,
for several months afterward, at which point I think he stopped trying.
My Akita (replacement) has been running fine... for 2.5 years since.
The keyboard and case are significantly worn,
and the CPU no longer likes overclocking but battery and the rest are in fine shape.
I have ceased and desisted from sucrotic, caffeinated, dark, acid sodas
and my life has been much improved.
However I fear to step between you and your coffee...
