Nobody wanted to follow up because nobody wants to admit being cheap was a bad idea. It might spread and people might start buying quality stuff instead of the cheapest thing on Jeff Bezos Bike Shop dot Com.

Tubus racks are super reliable and if you can brake one in normal use touring you must be going crazy with it. Ortlieb or Arkel makes super nice panniers that are durable and long lasting. Arkel sent a piece of the Cordua fabric they use for their panniers with a slice half way down and you were expected to try and rip it and I couldn't find anyone who could even tear another thread from it.

Stuff does cost money but for a one time investment that will last and last and last, I would say it is worth it in the end. I plan to have my panniers and rack for another 15 years at the very least and I have had them so far for about 5 years or so, so I figure they will be about $22 a year which isn't bad especially since they are paid off long ago.