Hi Skip, i had a frustrating introduction to RC tanks. A couple things I found 1) It's great to have some service/support, and 2) you want a "4:1" gearbox in whatever tank you get.
I would start out with a plastic Imex Taigen Tiger. There are 4 models - early or late and airsoft or IR. The benefits of this model over the Heng Long:
- Support from Imex / Erik
- Metal chassis / suspension
Add a 4:1 gearbox and you have a great driving tank and excellent follow up service should anything go wrong. Tank is $240 I think and gearboxes $55 for the basic steel model last i checked.
The metal chassis and suspension components are worth $100 at least, not sure what it would cost to upgrade after but save yourself the frustration.
You can purchase direct from taigentanks.com and in the recent newsletter there was a coupon code for free shipping expiring tonight 2/13. FREESHIP75