Advice - Syncrowave 300?

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EBAY had a Miller 300 listed a day ago.  Guy  wants $500!   At this price  there are a  couple catchs.    Seller has no history with the machine nor is he a welder so he cannot / will not confirm that it works. The other issue -  my complete lack of TIG experience.   I am learning welding to help my car project along.  I have rust repair projects I want to finish before winter and can see more difficult projects in the future for when my experience grows.   I was  looking for a nice MIG machine and normally would not consider a machine like this if not for the price.   My assumption is that something is wrong with this machine.   I  have the opportunity to inspect it in person.  Short of welding with it (no TIG experience - should I even try to strike an arc?) are there any visual tests to rule some problems?  For example does turning it on prove anything?   Of course I will open the case and look for burnt up wiring or smoke damage. If I find something nasty I can walk away.  Can you spot failures in a visual inspection?   Second - This is a LOT of machine   I know TIG is  harder than MIG (I have tackled a couple small projects with my little MIG - not bad given its a no name 110V machine)   I know TIG is slower  but not a big deal for me, I am not on the clock and  none of my projects will require that much welding individually.  I am attracted to TIG because of the super nice results that are possible. Of course - it will take me awhile to get there. I know most of you are pros and questions like these will  annoy most of you - please take it easy.  Tom
Reply:The first thing to look at, see if the machine is 3-phase only.  This is common with welders of 300 amps or more, and its a common reason they are cheap.
Reply:There are TWO of the Syncrowave 500 machines on http://www.govliquidation.com/ web site right now.  Bidding stands at $460 for both.  Auction ends 10/28 at 5:00 p.m.Item location is Mechanicsburg, PA.
Reply:Originally Posted by Q W & F L.L.C.Those may go super cheap. They are highly sought after by certain users. I would bid in a second, but not in the cards for me at the moment. Thanks for sharing, a great deal for someone. S.W.
Reply:Two Syncho 500's for $426 (next highest bid amount).  Single phase input, but it needs ~200 amps input at 230V!That and they weigh ~900 lbs EACH (1800 lbs for the pair on the pallet)!  The best laid schemes ... Gang oft agley ...