RichardS, great idea, I'm in. Perhaps you should start a new thread (title) so those who are skipping over the "Craigslist Scam" can become aware of this idea.
It might even be such a good idea HDT could create a category for it, and keep a database or list of those willing participants, their location and level of expertise (I guess you were right...there are a lot of details to discuss).
The reason this is appealing to me, I have made up my mind to upgrade from my 2006 to a 2009 and am just waiting for the price range to drop to my liking (~ $17,000-$19,000). I have been watching the "national" Craigslist, and am willing to fly out and ride home if I found the right deal. I definately couldn't do this without an idea like yours to assure me of getting on a plane.
Thanks for the great suggestion, I hope it takes off!