Good morning!
I have the GTR shocks on my Jato and I haven't had any issues at all. I have also heard that the stock Slash shocks SUCK. Yes, the plastic caps are the particular issue! I would recommend the gtr's. Mine are nice and smooth, have threaded bodies, they work nice and have not leaked or broken AT ALL! You can also check out the Proline shocks. They are supposed to be real nice, or you could check out Associated big bores. They are super slick. While you have been out of the game, the powers that be have also introduced shock valves. Its basically a way for you to tune the compression and rebound. If you are bashing, I see no need for anything like that. If you are racing, look into it. MIP makes a kit, just for instance. (and those ARE availible!) You'll prob want to pick up a couple different grades of silicone shock oils too. If you aren't familiar with the whole silicone thing, there is a short write-up about it in the suspension forum here. Happy shopping!!!
Btw, you will find that the brushless motors are way more efficient, have great torque avail, and require less maintenance in general than the brushed. Although you can get more rpms out of (either type motor really) a new motor, the upgrades in pinion and spur count is where you'll find all the timing. There will be ratios that will keep your motor and esc at a happy temp while providing you with the sweet spot between optimum speed and efficiency.
If you'll be on the track, you can tune the whole system for what you're doing... Radio is tuneable, esc is programmable, adjust motor timing (depending on what class you are in) all for PEAK racing and that is per track condition. A LOT has changed with the technology since you were involved last.
What I'm getting at here is choose your electronics wisely and if you are racing, choose purposefully. This would also include the battery. No need for a HUGE battery if it's going to start messing with your c.g. or adding more weight while you're racing.
