Bob, and also Clifford,
This is a copy I've left for Dave (LS) on the RB thread:
... it is not raining! I had a better look under the RB and I think you were right - I have found the problem:
The rubber doughnut that holds the centre bearing in place is compromised and has a hole big enough to put my finger through it at the top. The bearing itself seems to spin well, but I'll change it anyway.
The replacement assembly has not arrived yet (due tomorrow) so there is no point doing any more prep. The RB is raised and I've cracked all 8 nuts on the flanges and the two bolts that secure the cross member.
Come on postie, I want to get on with this job.
Alan