Eric,
What you have to take into consideration is the fact that although there are about the same number of prewar machines as postwar, the postwar machines are divided into 2 basic types (Mark and Dragonfly) - so there is a larger pool of knowledge regarding these machines. Also, you seem to have recently decided you would like to be the proud owner of a Comet - this being one of the less popular prewar machines (there are only 6 or 7 known to exist), the pool of knowledge for this machine, along with availability of spares, is correspondingly small, and venting your frustration on this forum will not make matters any better. Also, a fair percentage of the 'Old Guard' are not at ease with computing, so probably haven't seen your requests - there is still no substitute for getting to 'Club meetings' and contacting others face to face.
Regards,
Eddie.