BrownSwiss, good thought. That's essentially what I was asking in the OP, but the link makes it better. Slow and unreliable internet out here makes me think differently than those who can access stuff within the space of a 'click'.
Myself: If the machine was immaculate, well cared for and appeared like new in appearance, and cheap in price ($700 is rather cheap) then I would absolutely risk it. That said I would put my $700 towards something else if it is rough like you say.
I personally would look for a Hesston 1120.
Greatly appreciate your feedback, Rankrank. In my area, I believe I've seen just one Hesston mo-co, and that was probably 30 years ago. I know I've seen at least one other Gehl, which to my experience makes them at least twice as common here as a Hesston (lol). Waiting for an 1120 to show up locally may take a very, very long time, especially when I don't really have much time to be looking. With that advice, I can watch for one for as a longer term machine.
An uncle put up about 4,500 bales a year with NH equipment, and I remember him rebuilding the haybine wobble box at least twice, though the 69 baler was pretty much faultless. A older farmer I know finally beat his 7' NH to death, scrapped it and bought a fair to good condition 9' (or perhaps 11') NH a few years ago - the only one he could find at the time. Paid a dealer about 3k for it. He didn't use it much, has since developed dementia, and his family won't part with it for much less than he has in it. That's more than I can justify ATM for the privilege of putting up about 500 bales a year from 3 small plots for the next couple years.
I just hit craigslist for "haybine", and got "zero local results". Looks like the closest one for sale in my price range is either Ohio or Canada. That's a long drive with truck and trailer to go see if one is even worth buying.
Unless there are no other options in the next couple weeks, I'll probably pass on this Gehl unless it turns out to be a "made for Gehl by ...", or it sounds and cuts a lot better than it looks. I suspect the dealer knows that smaller mocos aren't exactly common around here anymore, so can ask (and probably get) a lot more than it would be worth elsewhere.
It's a shame I like this area. High taxes and lack of suitable affordable equipment make for just another reason to move. :-/