ORIGINAL: WacoNut
I doubt it, new 2300ma 4.8v NiMh just topped off on the charger. Should power the engine for several hours.
"Should" being the key word here. It's worth checking into. A cell dropping out, cold solder joint, or switch going weird on you is unusual, but not unheard of even when new. Would cause what you're describing.
You leaned it 1/8 turn, how far out does that leave you?