[Ashlandchris]

Usually for 2wd a fan isn't needed, but if doing long runs with a fast motor that may change. Also depends a little on airflow through shell. In 4wd a fan is usually advisable

I run on AstroTurf and can get usually 2 meetings out of mini pins and 3 out of spikes. Towards end I can feel grip fading. I run Schumacher yellows, but often blue is also ok and lasts slightly longer I'm told.
The yellows are typically good on all floors and I use them indoor on polished wood/carpet as well as AstroTurf. I'm told that in the wet, ballistic buggy greens are best. Never tried them though.

In terms of set up, I run a yokomo yz2 as a straight from box, kit set up and it is fantastic. Before that I ran a bmax2 kit set up and it too was great. Most cars have a good set up posted in the manufacturers section on here. I see fast schumachers at my club but they tend to break a lot.

Best tip? See what people run at your local club and go with that as you will have best access to advice, set up tips and emergency spares

Hope,that helps?