Thoughts on Buying Used Carb or Intake

[bladerunner]

Just thinking off the cuff here, but is there any reason to look for or consider a used carb or intake? I am looking at a typical Edelbrock Performer and a Holley 650.  I see lots of listings on Craigslist, but not knowing what flaws to look for, should I just opt for new? A new intake only would set me back $150, so I figure that is not bad.

[Stewart G Griffin]

What do you have now?

[Fairlane514]

For the intake you want straight port surfaces (use a straight edge), no thread stripped holes (you can helicoil if you find a good deal), no broken off pieces, no cracks.

Carbs.....check throttle shafts for wear, make sure no parts are missing, no cracks.