I've got an older rustler with a 2.5 in it, and it's making a clacking noise when you try to start it. It seems to run okay, not great, but okay. I was thinking of upgrading to the 3.3 or whatever it is, but I don't want to replace the engine if that's not the problem.

more info would be great......

wheres i sound like its comming from?

i can't seem to pinpoint it, and I've got professionally trained ears. It kinda sounds like it's coming from the clutch area, but I can't be sure. It also seems to do it when you start it, and then it dies down alot once the engine is running, but the ez start doesn't make the noise by itself. Compression on the motor seems good, I checked the bearings and the bushings (i've had it apart) and they seemed good. There was no sign of unusual wear in the engine, and the bushings had no play in them. the bearings were smooth and corosion free, so I'm a bit stymied.

does the clutchbell move freely? if u have checked everything else then i say its time to bust out the manual and breakdown the trans and check the gears.