Stick with it. Using blue locktight is a very important step to keeping the nitro cars together. Ive had too many all vibrate loose to just be a mystery, they need something to hold them in place. Nitro is quite a bit tougher than electric no doubt, but with some patience, and time it will pay off. At least you have a background with airplanes, and you will figure it out. Besides once the tires and screws all stay where they are supposed to, the next problem once they run right, is keeping them from smacking into things because they are soooo fast! You will figure it out, I was where you are before, and looking back now I can laugh. Its like anything else, as soon as you understand it, you'll be able to help others too (your son) and have a ton of fun too. Good luck, have fun.