Aww shoot, here we go again... new crawler build starting soon.

[ABabyEater]

Good to know if I decide to get the portal axles later on.
Where do those unshielded bearings end up?
I was contemplating desert lizard for this application but I'll give the S8Es a go 1st.

I just pulled the trigger on the pro system.
I actually watched RC reviews a few days ago on crawler ESC/ motor combos. It was really helpful.
After watch this video you referenced, I saw a q/a that indicated this system does indeed fit. Should be here in a few days.

Have you found a way to improve your issues with climbing?

I believe the unshielded bearings end up protected in the transmission, but I don't remember off the top of my head.

Desert Lizards aren't just too long, but also too large a diameter. If you really want top end go Dravtech shorts, but the stock shocks are plenty good on their own.

As for climbing, I went with full droop initially, but have since re-installed the rear springs, while keeping the front drooped. It climbs waaay better since it no longer shifts all the weight to only the rear wheels.