Yes: (based on 18 yrs of mostly buying meets). Here's just two cardinal rules:
1. If it operates, insist on trying under power before making an offer. Doesn't matter if you are looking at motive power or operating accessories. That's what makes York different than EBay. That's what those testing stations at the front of most halls are there for. (one clown's actual response to me: "You can test it all you want ... after you have bought it!). If you are going after PW motive power carry a D cell battery to test horns.
2 York trading is not symmetrical. The seller knows if there is anything wrong. Knows if it is repairable & @ what cost, and has probably researched its value & supply based on actual prior sales on the auction sites. It is simply not acceptable if he starts telling you he has no idea if it works, but is sure about what it's worth. You OTOH have the ultimate advantages: cash that can comfortably sit in your hip pocket, shoe leather under your feet, & time being on your side.
Cheers.
