Hi Chaindler
1. There are a few guys here playing the PBEM campaign. Hopefully they have some ideas.
However, I really think that it is trial and error...it will depend on what era you are playing and how big the battles are and also how many games you wish to play in the campaign.
The nature of the PBEM campaign makes it hard to test without spend a bunch of time.
2. It is possible to do what you wish.
I have forgotten the exact procedure but it is fairly simple to change the stats of a unit.
You should ask these questions at the home of SPCAMO Steel Panthers games.
The Shrapnel forums
MBT
http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/forumdisplay.php?f=78
WW2
http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/forumdisplay.php?f=139
Also...there is a huge amount of information in the Game Guide that comes with the game.
The answer to question 2 will surely be in there.
Hopefully someone here can help.
I know Weasel and Vesku are playing a campaign.
Narwan and Pyros are great guys for texh info
Good luck
Walrus