Thanks for the quick response guys I had a feeling I needed to install becomeroot but am following instructions verbatim until I am more comfortable in the environment, especially as you warn that these tools can be dangerous for your device.

The initfs_flash ran perfectly and I saved your example N800 Bootconf so it was included in the image. Now all I have to do is follow the instructions penguinbait has on creating a backup boot card and look into what Sardine/Herring are all about.

Thanks again for your support.

Arch