I too have purchased a couple dozen used engines and many other items from ebay. Knock wood, I have not been burned yet - every item was as described. I do take time to check out the seller's feedback and exchange email with them prior to the purchase.

I have a significant investment in RC equipment, and sometimes need to change out for whatever reason. So I sell off engines/planes/radios I have no use for at the time to finance other purchases.

For example, I have 5 Saito twins (2 90s, a 130, a NIB 182 and a 270) sitting in my locker right now that I have no more use for - I will probably sell them to finance other purchases. But I expect to give as good as I get - I have checked over each engine (except the NIB 182), adjusted the valves and bench run them afterwards to ensure they all perform at the factory specs. I expect the purchaser to be happy with their purchase. I feel I have the right to expect the same from other hobbist when I purchase from them.

New is great - but when I can spend only 2/3's as much to get the same thing, then my pocketbook is ahead of the game.

Lynn