Honestly the only issue with the volcano is the gear train, which you already know about. It's a simple fix once you wear out the stock gear train, you can replace it with the single speed set up. I would check the radio when you get it before you run it. Just turn on the radio and the car and walk away working the controls and make sure it works at least 50 yards away maybe alittle less. Other than that all you need to get going is a starter kit, fuel, after run oil, air filter oil and 12 AA and you're off to the races.