In all reality 3rd class is meant to be a jump above their respective trans class, which is the most logical step considering that the Trans are meant to be a jump up from their respective 2nd class and so on. Each class is meant to have a distinct advantage and disadvantage. Balance was never an aspect in my mind.
My opinion is, if you intend to take these classes and attempt to round them out or balance them, you shouldn't be allowing anything beyond the normal cap in levels and status. That's just how I feel, anyways.