Compared to my PreppComm QRP CW rigs, I've actually found the (tr)uSDX finals to be quite robust and much easier to repair than the PreppComm radios where "blown finals" means replacing much more than the three FETs (which are also SMD in the PreppComm)! (Thank you Manuel and Guido!)
My QRP rigs are usually connected to an antenna with better than 2:1 SWR but I still use my Antuner AT100M to bring the SWR down to 1:1 and I monitor the power output. I often run at 6-1/2W at 13.8v after tuning SWR down to 1:1 or very close to it.
I'm on 2.00x now and it's working well but I still can't find a way to adjust JS8Call audio output to an optimum level (a bit below peak power output) without using an external power meter. The 2.00u release notes say Add experimental Power meter during TX but it's never worked for me and others with whom I've digi-chatted on JS8 and I think it should be a high FW priority. I'm running CAT/CAT PTT and analog audio cables and the (tr)uSDX power / efficiency / SWR feature does not display anything unless I switch to CW mode and push the PTT button, which doesn't help me set audio levels.
So that's my 2.00/v/w/x BETA feedback including, again, I think my new rule is to always do the "factory reset" after flashing the FW as you described, Chip. Except for maybe the CW messages, it's easy to restore menu settings like RShunt, LPFConfig, Ref Freq., etc,--certainly easier than restoring FETs--especially if they are not socketed.
73,
Cal -- AD8Q