Scott,
This is an excellent thread and when I see you at York I would like to follow up on this conversation. The problem I have is that buying "used" trains is SO dependent on the veracity and reputation of the seller. Sure, there are huge discounts on the "used" trains but if there is a problem, will the seller back them up?
I know Lionel prices are high now, but if I have a problem, Mike and company take good care of me. I bought a "used" Vision Challenger here on the Forum for big $ only to find it DOA. If it was not for Mike Reagan backing me up and repairing the loco I would have been DOA, too.
Used is OK as long as I have a solid understand with the seller. Period.