Thanks, believe it or not I've got a Jaguar CUB inverter on order from Pete Moss at Transwave. I just need more control. I really need the best I can get but also have to keep my head during this lock down. Crazy timing I guess, not just for me.
Regarding the bearings, I've been looking at SKF at Simply Bearings. Quite a price range. I could pay £90 for one but I think that's out of my league and perhaps overkill. Maybe they're for marine use or the auto industry? Anyway I have to get 6 in 3 sizes so I'll try and get the best I can for around £30 a pop. They'll probably last as long as I use the lathe and maybe I'll be in a better place to buy higher end once they wear.
I'll update once everything arrives and I reassemble the lathe. It's at least comforting to know it's spotless inside now… for a while anyway.