The only time I have felt mine is going hard round a corner on the nurburgring and it rained in the power. I just switch mine off at the switch but as bungy says it isn't completely off
I wouldn't bother with the rears. Just make sure they work properly. New sliders, piston seals and hand brake mech is tip top then get some decent pads in there
Not the best of news there. But dealing with the yanks when buying is hard work at the best of times. This is why I don't buy from the states, only once but direct with unibrace. Keep on at them and as others have said PayPal/ credit card company etc