Yeah traction always plays a huge factor in component temps, plus when you have lots of bite you can rip on it hard. As long as you're coming off below 140* you're fine. If it's much higher than that then I expect some part of your setup (gearing...) needs to be improved. As far as protecting the motor I just like to make sure they stay below 180* on a run to run basis. It's near impossible to reach that temp in an offroad car though.