LCG

I had a rod rack directly over the floor vents for years, never had a problem.

I try to carry a net most times, but I found it cumbersome when carrying more than one combo.
 
Last year I purchased a fly fishing sling bag that works well. I keep the net clipped to the bag, and when I need it, simply sling the bag from my back to my front and unclip. It extends, but it can be a little awkward while fighting the fish. May look for a better net or MacGyver something.
 
Had a back injury last year and bending/twisting is very painful. This has helped a lot. I think nets are safer for the fish (assuming catch and release) and much safer for the rods

I have used kastking 4 carrier braid. Pretty decent for the price and quantity of line. It's thicker than advertised, but never had issues with it. I would not put it in the same category as suffix or power pro, but it's decent.

My finesse combo is a 6'8 ML-F Daiwa Rebellion with a Shimano Stradic FL 2500. No complaints and the combo is very balanced. 

I think you are on the right track. A 3/4oz spinnerbaits will weigh close to 1.5oz in true weight, so a heavy action rod with a slower tip sounds right. No experience with the rods mentioned, but I would imagine there will be budget friendly rods with those qualities available. Good luck to you.