I hope the feedback system change will work. I have not left feedback in fear of a retaliation. I have also read some ads that said they will give feedback after the buyer leaves feedback.
One thing I wish eBay would do is enforce its rules. I report people that place items in the wrong category. There is one guy that constantly puts cycling clothes in the "Complete Bicycles and Frames" category. I have reported this guy at least 100 times, but eBay won't do anything. I really hate it when I am browsing through the complete collectible bicycles and there are tons of parts, print ads and clothing listed in that category.