If you are new to this hobby ,as you said ,I suggest that you find some local help with your building and espicially flying! The Plane you speak of should be your third or fourth plane , not your first. It is way to hard to fly for a first plane. Find someone to teach you on a high wing trainer. By the time you can fly and land it you will know a lot more about this hobby. Why not brush on a clear dope or use a clear spray paint that is fuel proof? Personally I would put an electric motor in it but that is expensive.