Richo-Sorry I will probably not be able to make it.
bigdogXXX-s-I never sand my diff rings. The only thing that I feel makes the diff better is the McMaster Carr thrust assembly. They are expensive...however they last forever.
PSI Racer-You can try more kick in the front of the car. That will help the car get through the bumps more. Another thing I like to do to get more steering on the car is run AE caster blocks. They have more flex which gives you more front grip.
imjonah-On the TL shocks I do not build them with any pressure. They actually retract back in a bit. I feel thats the way you want them.