There is one thing I forgot to ask, are your DMM probes thick enough to measure high current? I realize that most of the original probes that come with the DMM are not good and we usually make our own one by using 22awg or thicker wires.
To answer your questions above:
Yes the Qlite is a good one and it is actually a variation of these Nanjg-105C. If you want to bump up the current you can do it by adding extra 7135 chips , or you can ask Richard (from mtnelectronics) to help you to do so when you order from him. I modded a JAX Z1 for a friend before and I used this Qlite driver too, it works like a charm.
2. Yes, you need 22awg or thicker. But bear in mind that going too thick may cause some problems to the assembly later.
3. Spring mod is necessary to reduce the resistance in all the springs.
I think that’s about it and waiting to see your results later.