If you think about all the transactions that occur due to items bought or sold on Craigslist, you are only hearing about a very small number of problems (theft, fraud, defective products...etc). Just like this forum you only read about a very few bad experiences with RVs if you consider how many RVs are on the road in North America.
You can do things to protect your self:
Have the generator tested in person or by a local mechanic, electrician
If local then have at least one other person go with you to look at the generator. This person will stay where they can see the transaction and be ready to step in or call the police if things go wrong.
We have bought numerous items off of craigslist for many years without any problems.
I have a friend that buys cars from all over the country. He has the seller send photos and videos plus a written description of any known problems with the vehicle. He negotiates the price based upon this information and sends the money, then arranges for a transport company to deliver the vehicle to him. I know of 8 vehicles he has bought this way with no unexpected problems.
