I fully expect the gears to have a limited lifespan.  I'm not expecting this toy (originally sold for $3.00 apiece about 10 years ago!) to have much longevity, especially when pushed.  I really just want to get a few good runs out of it and then I will likely get back to focusing on my other projects.  As it is, I have shimmed the gears to mesh better - no chatter now and the gear lash is just a few thousandths.  I have also installed a better version of the 260 motor and am awaiting a break in the weather to try  it again.  A brushless motor, although lighter, etc., would be overkill for what I want the boat to do - plane off and look decent doing it.  I am not looking for a speedster, just scale speeds - maybe a bit more.  It was just something to mess with while I await Spring!

- Scott