Shit-mano components

I love my new bike. It's not so new anymore as I've been trying to ride the hell out of it. So far the following components have failed after approx 2.5 months of use:

Bottom rear der. pulley (new XTR) completely crapped out on me, fortunately I was able to ride back to the TH, avoiding 8-mile walk.

My chain (XT/Ultegra) has broken 3x in the last 3 rides. The new SRAM PC-99 I have laying around gets the call tonight. I typically only run SRAM chains, but thought I'd give the stock Shitmano a chance.

Yep1 I'm not a fan of the Shimano chains. I always run SRAM pc-99s. I've never had one fail me.

Sucks about your derailleur pulley. I haven't had one fail on me, but I can offer this advice: whatever you do DO NOT buy one of those pimp anno metal derailleur pulleys sold at places like Performance Bike. They look trick and all, but they are WAY too loud. The metal on metal clanking will drive you nuts.