Since I can not view the photos at work here, I want to ask if you have an in-line fuse somewhere in the system. If not, you'll want to add one. Especially if you convert to a Proboat ESC. The Vipers are reputed to use SmartFETS, which are transistors that detect an overload and automatically shut down. I would still hedge my bet with an in-line fuse.

Let us know what the hobby store recommends for an ESC. They may not carry ProBoat or will try to sell you something already on the shelf. For a single motor setup, you can't go too far wrong however. Let us know how it goes from here. Post photos if you run into trouble.