I never really broke any knuckles, but I did break the servo saver a couple times on before I moved the rod to the inner position.
Do you have a picture of this, I don't really understand what you mean.
I also have a set of mashers for mine, altho its impossible to keep the F wheels down. One trick I do like with the mashers are to mount them on the TRX 2.8" rims. I cut the beads off, then mount them inside the new rims. Same size, but much less ballooning and a bit better handling.
Sounds like a good idea. I taped mine, so the ballooning is ok but steering is far worse
Love your paintwork