Darren,
I'm not holding out too many hopes.... I've been reading up on the whole process of patents for 2 years or so and it all seems like a con to me.... Problem is, how do I get stuff made by a company and not get ripped off in the process otherwise?!
John,
So simple it should be taught in schools!

I will attempt it the next time I hit the 'shop

Scott,
Well now, there's a lot to get my head around!!
The bearings sound kind of interesting... Possibly expensive? I have some ball races that would suffice. They have a shoulder to hold them in easier and will not be subjected to much heat and a very small amount of residual steam/moisture. They would also probably be run with an extreamly light oil, possibly diesel?
The centre shaft idea is just a thought... I'm not sure it will work until I get the pipes installed? I don't want to make it too complex! This is an understatement when you consider what I am going through trying to make it!! The over top bearing may yet still be employed... The good bit is a quick heat up and the bits I'm trying will fall out and new ideas can be soldered in
I know what you mean about a lubrication delivery system but I'm as I said trying to keep it simple! I don't think it would need one? It will only require a lube' every few runs if I have my figurings correct?!
There will also be no need for any oil in the water as no moving parts will get bathed in either water or steam.
I'm not knocking your ideas...such ideas are what this forum is all about, sharing

Just stating what I'm trying for... Cheep and easy.... There's a joke in there somewhere!?!
I'll give the Boggie bender a go (erm!!) and then see where it gets me! ... We will go from there with a new direction if it sucks!
Right going to leave it there before too many other innuendos pop up!
Ralph.