After reviewing everyone's posts (I'd use the word comments, but it doesn't seem appropriate), I've concluded that we are all just dealing with corporate politics.
My post wasn't even responded to appropriately, *in my opinion*. However, I'm not the one responsible for the kit or their quality...but for a company (Mario took the role as a company spokesman in this thread at first) to say they will investigate the issue by opening up 5 kits and reviewing the bearings and then NOT provide quantifiable evidence of their findings is reason for me to believe there is a problem. Then there were other excuses, like "[paraphrased]...provided from another manufacturer...[paraphrased]". As to this date, I still don't see any indication that XRAY is investigating the problem, if there is one.
Now the role has changed...everyone in this forum needs to realize they are not dealing with someone that can change the manufacturing process. Correct me if I'm wrong, Mario, but you say you are relaying information back and forth. That leads me to believe you are not in a position to actually solve the problem, or conduct a formal investigation. If this is incorrect, I apologize, even though I am not accusing anyone of anything. I've worked on both sides of the fence, and understand how corporate "policy" (I quote that word, because lots of them are technically and legally UNENFORCEABLE) can hender a vast array of situations that arise. In general, they can be considered as "best for the general public". However, they can also cost a company millions in a swift customer decline.
The only dealings I've had with Mario is way back when I first purchased my setup system. There was an issue with the adhesive on the measured sheet. Although the suggestion Mario supplied 'somewhat' worked, I didn't feel it was the right one. Defective products should be replaced, plain and simple. I voiced my opinion, but it didn't get me anywhere. Maybe that's why I don't have an XRAY sponsorship.
I look back now at that situation and understand what took place. Everything is peachy and I'm satisfied. Mario seems like a genuinely good person, which leads me to believe if there is a problem with the new diffs, they will get it resolved.
I know this post is long, but it's almost done! The second to last problem I have with what an individual has posted is that "[paraphrased]...team drivers ran them and had no problems...[paraphrased]". I don't know of ANY factory-sponsored team driver that uses a mass-produced FACTORY-assembled diff. The diff they use might come preassembled, but not by "Technician A" on the factory floor. I don't even trust the factory to assemble them correctly, the same as any nitro engine. They are disassembled and put back together per my preference and experience. When I purchased my T1 way back when, I opened the box and the bulkheads where attached to the chassis plate...what for? You have to revmove them anyway, so the only thing it did was raise the price of the kit in order to add a bling factor when people opened the box!
Last thing! If there is a problem with these diffs, why is it taking so long to come to a conclusion? This is a severe error on XRAY's part, IF THERE IS A PROBLEM. I know, from experience in manufacturing and production, it takes less time than this to figure it out. Hold someone responsible for what takes place, or you might just see a sharp decline in profits, and that would really be bad! The best solution is to stop assembling the diffs at the factory. The majority of your customers are medium to top-quality drivers and enjoy the hobby, and probably the building of the car in general. Letting them assemble the diff only strengthens their understanding of the car. You could also drop the price a dollar!
I hope everyone understands that I'm not flaming anyone. I actually hope many of you calm down and look at it from both sides. The diffs might be bad and they might not. I guess I'll find out whenever I get my '05.