The Northern Virginia club http://1nvrc.com/ has an RC auction twice a year. You may be able to pick up some reasonable equipment there. Several other clubs have flea markets in the greater DC area. Most are over however ultill the fall. The swap forums here at RC Universe have a wealth of items for sale. There is a club in Haymarket just off interstate 66 and another in Bealeton (FARM club)

By the time you get a plane and join the AMA and a club $500.00 is about where you will be. Good luck.

EXCAP232