53monster is right on the money.
The other thing that can help, is going to shows, and seeing finished, or on the road trucks. Is there a local place where gear heads meet weekly, like an informal show?
Also, as dumb as it sounds, getting someone to take you for a ride will help. Once its at the stage where you can drive it, it makes it more exciting for some.
I buy all my tools used. I find that you can buy much better quality, for way less than for off shore crap.
