As far as I know, the phases are the same as the original Classic release phases, just at an accelerated pace. The one main change is battlegrounds are available sooner – I believe we have made that change already. If there are particular items that you think aren’t flagged with the correct phase, let us know.
Which onyxia loot is it showing? If you could provide me with a snapshot, that usually helps too, instructions on how to do that here: New "Help" Link Support Feature
It was my understanding that counterweights work in feral forms. It’s hard to find confirmation for classic mechanics anymore, but that was the best information that I could find. Either way it is so negligible you could ignore it if you want.