How much money are you risking, and I'm not really asking you to tell us the price, but rather to think if its a total loss or worth only half the amount, how bad does it really hurt you?
Its harder to quantify, but think about the time the same way. You actually seem more concerned about the time than the money.
I've bought a couple without seeing them first and actually have been happier with those purchases than some I've inspected first. The difference for me is in the amount I risked compared to what I expected.
One of the most disappointing problems I've found AFTER the purchase was something I'm sure the previous owner did not even know about. The seller may be completely honest but not aware of issues you don't want to be stuck with.
You might try to find a couple of guys from here who live in the area and offer to buy them lunch or a beer if they will meet you and look at the truck with you. They may end up telling you not to buy the truck, but then you'll have made some new friends plus you'll have the advantage of anything new you learn from the guys.
Sounds like enough fun I'd like to come too, but Denver is three days drive from here.
