Captain and remix: email me at
mike@rc-monster.com and we can discuss some options, pros and cons of each option and settle on the setup that is right for each of you. I do custom packages/truck all the time, so we should be able to work out the details quite quickly. Of course, there are many options to choose from, so some discussion is appropriate.
Captain:
If you have a good radio system/batteries/servo, you could build a rock solid maxx with all the trimmings for quite a bit less than $5000(probably half).
Remix:
The xl2400(10L equivilent) on 12 cells could get by with the stock setup(just add some real wheels and tires). Aluminum bulks would be the first thing I would upgrade, though. the plastic fails pretty quickly if you don't land on the wheels. A good servo and servo saver are also a worthwhile investments(actuially, these would come before the bulks!).
I look forward to the e-mails from both of you!