My shocks stopped leaking after a few rebuilds, the tops of the bodies got some love.
My diffs leaked because of mechanic error, also stopped leaking after a few rebuilds.
Yup on checking shock travel VS the outdrives, like any car.
The original towers are junk, the FREE upgrade should be better, the braces should end that issue.
The diff cases need more beef or a slightly altered plastic blend. Perhaps the tower braces will help a bit.
No issues here with gears. Slipper set a little on the loose side. Do a bench test, don't trust the calipers. It will loosen a bit after a few runs but not too much.