Vic, I think your approach is the best, provided there is enough space to accommodate the steel housing.
hi east64, read your post and i might have a solution Im a student at a company that might be able to help you out with the right bearing. The iglidur X bearings are made of polymer and doesnt require any lubrication and work up to -100 degrees. I think it would realy suit your requirments. If you have any more questions feel free to ask me Kind regards