My esc keeps overheating on me reaching the thermal protection limit after about 7 min run time.

I am running the rx8 gen 2 in my sc10 4x4 with a tekin 7.5 gen 2 also. 12guage wiring 2 cell lipo battery's I think 60c.

I've messed with the gearing even though the motor temps are below 160 and nothing changed. I've tried changing the motor to a reedy 4.5 that I have too but nothing. The gear mesh is perfect and smooth as butter. When I first bought it used there was a binding issue in the drivetrain but I've fixed it and have gone through it 3 more times thinking its a binding thing but it can't be.

My next thought is not a cheap one but am I running the wrong motors type? Do I have to run stuff like the pro4hd motor specifically cause I have a 4x4?

Thx in advance for your help guys.