in the manual,it says NOT to shorten the motor leads and to use the high current connectors. It says that using short wires might lead to running problems with the motor if it will run at all. I see LOTS of guys running crazy short wires on their cars from the esc to the motor. is there any truth to this?

Certain types of motors have the actual windings of the motor extend to your A,B and C leads - THOSE you cannot shorten, that is probably what they mean.

Ensure that the motor you have, you are OK to shorten the wires - has nothing to do with the ESC.

aaahhhh,
thanks for clearing that up.Now it makes sense.
many thanks.