Thanks for the info Lynn.
Impregnate it with what though........any suggestions??
One of the problems I had was finding brass fittings suitable and more importantly small enough to do the job. Tested the original wrapped in elec tape by feeding the grease through with a grease gun. This obviously applied pressure and the tape held. I do realise over time the tape will lose its adhesive quality but it'll have to make do for the time being.
Appreciate all the help from everyone.
More pictures on You Tube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-MaKGrKveY