[Chrislong]

The direction of the diff doesn't matter, as long as you have locked them with the grub screw they should never loosen.

Belt deflection? Whats that? Just set them as per manual, I find the front on the Lipo car is too tight so slacken it by one notch.

Other pistons? No need & I don't know the answer. But im sure somebody else will confirm what will/won't fit.

If you cut the bladder, then remove just the baggy centre, not the O-ring outer. I haven't done this and can't see any benefit, the shocks built as per manual are amazing. Im sure somebody will describe the benefits of doing it for me and you.