Can't say there is any reliability issues with the cheap Axial motors. The RTR 27t variants seem super reliable and there are enough examples of the 35t motor on 3s to know it's safe. It's just the modified motors are more efficient and can be rebuilt so generally they are considered better... In short the Axial motors are not the best in the world, but they do there job well.
Sounds like u have a good idea on what u want, sounds like a solid plan
as for the winch... I wonder if it's as simple as bolting it to the bumper????
