how do I contact seller for information prior to purchase.

[leonardangler1]

I cannot negotiate the 'contact seller' when viewing an item prior to purchase. I do not understand the new messaging system. Please help. 

[john1297576]

There is a contact link on every item top right, or on the sellers feedback page.

If by viewing an item before purchase you mean going to see item, unless a car for sale as a Classified Auction,  you have to buy and pay before you are allowed to view. If after viewing it is  not what you want, then you ask seller to cancel the sale.