You can't use any of the consumer level electronics for a project like that. Evan the HV-Maxx (with a 1/8th inch shaft) is questionable. Yes, you need Mod1 pinions. You can get everything you need here:
http://www.starluckrc.com/catalog/

Check this thread for more info:
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_4110015/tm.htm