it depends on how well you keep your r/c's in check? im a freak about keeping everything clean and tip top for racing. after every race weekend i strip it down and cheack it over. i pull the motor and check the clutch/bearings,spray simple green on the arms and staying away from the eletronics, blow it off and wipe it down. about every 3rd wk i check the shocks. its not that bad and your driving skillzz are gonna keep it together.

some just throw it in their trunk and forget about it until the next race???

MAXYS,BYRONS,O'donnell all in 20% nitro are good, as for the plugs it depends on the motor ,just ck w/ the hobby shop and get a few extras.