There are some good guys with good equipment but unless you know the guy and can verify in-person the equipment, don't buy used until you learn some things like you are starting to. Your experience stinks, I feel for you. That's probably one reason this hobby isn't any bigger. Realize though that this hobby, especially nitro, can be expensive. It's not uncommon for racers to have ten times what you've spent at the track with them in equipment, vehicles, and tools. Crazy right? Thing is, you have to look at it this way-if you like this hobby, spend the money on good, new equipment, take care of it and maintain it, and you can spend your time enjoying your stuff instead of troubleshooting it. Best of luck buddy, lots of help here on these forums.