semi-noob returning to the sport, seeking help

[Bigmuff]

Hello folks. I joined this board because most everyone on here seems literate and knowledgeable.

I recently got back into RC cars, returning from a 20 year break. I'm just a basher, and always dug the Tamiya stuff. So I picked up a Baldre cheap on Ebay.

My questions concern ESC and transmitter choices. I have a Futaba Magnum Jr, which works fine as long as I don't drive more than 5o feet or so, or the car drives inself into a wall (my old Hornet, btw). I was looking at the Futaba 2PL 2.4 GHz transmitter, which is just barely within budget. Good choice? If there's better for cheaper, I'd be glad to check it out. I have a handful of old Futaba 148S (?) servos which I always felt worked just fine, so sticking to Futaba may save me $$.

As for the ESC, I was looking at the Futaba 230CR. Never had a problem with the old Futaba ESC I've been using, but I don't want to have to move it between cars all the time. The 230 is roughly $50. Is there anything in that price range that's as good or better? I'm avoiding brushless for now, but may check it out in the future. Also, I live in Seattle, where it is very, very wet. A water resistant ESC may be a good idea.

Sorry for the lengthy question, and thanks in advance for your time!