9xl, 5s, Quark 125b + Lipo battery holders?

[BrianG]

The 9XL is a good all-around motor. But since it is not as efficient as the higher-end motors, it WILL heat up after a while no matter what. If you run for ~20-30 minutes, let rest for ~20 minutes, and then run again, it should be fine. But if you are looking for a non-stop running motor, I would look at a Neu 1512 or 1515 series, or Lehner 1940 or 1950 series.

I am not familiar with the Savage, but most auto-shifting trannies I've seen cannot use the motor for braking or reverse because of a OWB. Besides, these motors have enough torque for ~35mph that you don't really need multple gears unless you are trying for some VERY high speeds.

CF battery holders are quite strong and can be made from L shaped pieces to form a U shape. Graphiteelegance.com used to be a good place to go, or try McMastercarr.com. Be aware that CF is electrically conductive so if you have any chafe points in the wrong place, it could short out the battery. The same is true with Al too, but most people don't think CF is conductive.