Hi
that mod sounds interesting, I haven't got the book, mine came from the mag plan.
I don't see why a steel ball won't work but I suspect, and this is only my opinion, that when clamping a plastic ball, it defoprms slightly, giving more grip, whereas a steel ball will need tightening up more.
mind you, I didn't have a stel ball so I bought a plastic one. being a beginner I was following the plan exactly,time for experiments when I get some more experience.
lets see some pics when you start because
there, I've been wanting to use that for ages

cheers
Roy