Didn't their F18 share a Hobie Tiger rig or something (or was it just a taller Tiger?). At any rate, I can help you a little with your balls. If you can figure out the size, one of these will work...you'll just need to drill and tap them.

http://www.mcmaster.com/#balls-(made-with-delrin-acetal-resin)/=q6l66u

Do you have any pictures of those parts? I can't remember what they look like.