Per DaveH's post:
I actually purchased my SCT from M03Racer! Nice rig ... and I'm relearning to drive and getting better every week.
I ran one of my old brushed ESCs and motors for the first couple/few weeks. I have now purchased a used ESC and a used Novak 17.5 Ballistic with the yellow label stator. Seems to run pretty quick. I can gear it to munch on all of the other trucks in the heat at the start and keep it under 150-f for a single heat. If I practice for a full pack, it will get too hot with this gearing. I went down a few teeth and it is still plenty fast for my novice driving and stays cool for extended practice sessions.
So far, I like it. I will only be able to make a real judgement when I can drive it properly, though.
Thanks for all the input guys.