[reno911]

I thought I had it shimmed pretty well but apparently something still gave.

Those are definitely metal shavings. Haven't been in any sand yet. All the grease you see is marine grease. I placed it around the bearings and diff ring/pinion to prevent sand and water entering.

I heard somewhere that these rings might be cast aluminum they seem pretty hard though but that might have been part of the problem.

I have also read that the Duratrax Raze is almost a clone of the Ofna hyper 7 so perhaps I have access to some stronger parts with the Ofna line if needed.