why do you want hexes on a b4?

Looks like the chassis is different in the back where the box fits. No web there where the box sits. The steering block looks better like they made the bearings wider than Pro-line and hopefully the axle fits the bearings better too.

How much better is the FT edition vs the standard kit? And in particular, what makes them better? I was contemplating upgrading to FT kit or getting the newly released 4x4 .

I converted my FT T4 to a SC10 and I really like it. I have raced four different SC10 over the last couple years. Personally for me the shock made the biggest difference. With the rtr shocks I would redo them after three qualifier and air in them. I bought TC4 bladder caps and it keeps the shocks more consientant over the qualifers.

What is a good shock upgrade for the B/less RTR SC10?

I think the shocks that come on the rtr brushless sc10 are stout, and perform well..I dont really see a need to upgrade them imo..

One thing to check on the rtr shocks is the spacer tube that goes between the o rings. if that spacer is too long it will squeeze the oring causing premature leakage. In my first SC10 kit, 3 out 4 tubes were too long. I trimmed them down just alittle and no leakage. Use the AE green slime to assembly the seal assembly. I love the bladder caps. help to keep the air out. the shock profile doesnt change as much with use.

Check this about the debate over bladder shocks vs Emulsion Shock

http://www.rctech.net/forum/electric...er-shocks.html

I'm starting to think about shocks because i noticed a little bit of moisture at the arm attachment points at the rear, and AE shocks are pretty well-known for leaking. I've only run 2 packs through mine at a moderate pace, but the track I run it at does have a reasonably rough surface.

What makes the FT shocks better than the standard shocks?

Sounds like you have a crushed o'ring.

The FT shocks are threaded. Easier to fine tune your ride height. No clips

The FT shocks are easier to build consistently, don't leak as bad as the more modern, old-style shocks, and are faster/easier to rebuild when the time comes. Not to mention they have TiNi coated shafts.
Spoken like somebody that has never owned both the stock SC10 RTR/basic kit shocks and the V2s

Already?

I see some big-bore shocks from Hot Racing on liquidrc for about $29/pair. Alternatively the FT ones are about $40/pair

Hot Racing shocks are junk, dude.

Thanks. I'm new to RC so I'm still trying to work out which brands are good and which are junk.