I use it all the time. On my Nemesis and Genesis..

The Associated Nitro TC3 uses the same type of 2 speed. This system is probably the best you can buy.
I am sorry you feel it isn't good enough for you.

If you check the balance of the system you will find it is spot on. Without the set screws the Adjustment screws that are 90deg across from them would cause it to be out of balance. However, the spur gear is made from steel and out weighs the whole system, so if anything was out of balance the weight of the spur gears would counter it all..
You stripping out pinion gears would be more closely related to the gear mesh not being set properly.



There are 2 basic types of 2 speeds. One the clutch system found on the Nemesis and the lever cam system found on early HPI cars.
Anyone who has ever has the lever system will tell you that the clutch system is a night and day difference for the better.