ultrasmurf, your description up top is really well written and I think it's pretty much accurate. The comments above are right, however... each motor may be a bit different and the driver for one may not work with another. There are all sort of differences, including the type of winding (the maximum current, correct voltage, etc...) and also the encoder or hall effect sensor will put out different signals, etc... However: It would be really cool if there was some sort of database or general knowledge about which motors and drivers ARE the same or close enough to work. If you search for your motor, or for the original driver, you might find someone who has gotten away with what you are trying before. If you can find the specs or technical details of the originals system... although that probably isn't shared by the mfgr... Or you could just throw caution to the wind and try something close. Either way, let us know.