If you use Lipo : Buy a Lipo buzzer/low voltage alarm and use that instead, that vist only a few $. Attach it on tha balance plug on the battery. When it start making noise/buzz stop driving.
Using NiMH: When the rc gets really slow - stop driving :-)
Well, the front end alignment is one of those things that really isn't hard to do but for a lot of people seeing is what flips the "aha!" switch. I'm including a link to the Traxxas Support Youtube channel; lot's of info there for owners and links to other R/C. Traxxas Support
Firstly the engine could have breathed in some sand from the beach thus causing the lack of power , it could also be that the glow plug requires changing too, this is a common problem on nitro cars, especially when the engine gets too hot and doesnt get much cooling. Reset to factory settings on the carb(see your manual or download one) then restart , also make sure you are using the correct fuel , it must be 20% nitro. Lastly for the replacement from 2.5 to 3.3 yes you can do it . all you have to do is unbolt the old 2.5 replace with the 3.3 plumb in and wire is as before , check the messing on the spur gear. though be cautious not to over rev the engine as you will strip the spur gear.
