got a mini-x, have some questions

[richh]

ok, just got my first mini-x and had some questions...

1) i bought the version that has the electronics and batteries (5 cell pack) already installed. the batteries are soldered directly to the esc. will i harm the rcvr or esc if i connect the charger clips to the battery pack w/o disconnecting the pack from the esc? would i be better off adding a connector between the battery pack and the esc?

2) there are two screws to the left and right of the motor shaft (on the side going to the front, pic attached). what are these for, am i missing a part?

3) on the chassis, directly below the shaft about an inch in front of the end of the motor closest to the front of the car there is a counter sunk hole. what's this hole for?

4) finally, the gear mesh between the front diff and the gear on the shaft is pretty loose. i can turn the front wheels and shaft will not turn because the mesh is so loose. any suggestions on how to tighten the mesh?

thanks