im no expert... but i will respond with my current research as I am inthe same boat. i also need any info i can get. currently i have decided to purchase my first reefer used from a dealer. auctions are a good place to find a deal, but i am not familiar enough with them to be troubleshooting one if i buy a lemon. truck paper has alot to search thru. youtube has a couple good videos. CARB compliance is a necesary evil to research. id say spend the extra dollar on a newer reefer, so you can use it instead of work on it.