Orange how many turn Fieago are you using?

As noted aboe, I have selected a 12XL Fieago (12 turn brushless)

Any reason on stripping the paint? The paint job is chipped on on the hull but painting is also not a strong point of mine. What kind of paint?.

I'm painting mine because I did not like the original paint job and I like to be different. I'm using Auto Color paints, but I have also used Dupli-Color rattle cans with good results.

As for the hardware I plan on keeping the nitro hardware due to cost measures.

If your hardware is the matching Aeromarine, .150-3/16" flex drive setup, you shouldn't have any problem with using it provided it is in good condition.

Also on the Barracuda Esc would I be able to use a cheaper esc as long as it can handle the Cell count and amperage?

There ARE cheaper alternatives, but I think you'll be happy in the long run with a Fieago ""XL/80A Barracuda from OFE.