I have had the Jet for 2 years and it is a great machine. I have used both machines and no real significant difference to me. Far as the shaft goes I just use a little grease on mine and have never had an issue. I just cleaned my up this morning and have had water in the trough for over a month and took the wheel off an no rust at all.
I use the Tormek jigs for turning and they work very well and would recommend them to anyone with any of the wet sharpeners. I have the Jet knife jigs and the platform and they work very well. I just think the Tormek setup for gouges with the TTS100 is the way to go.
I got my Jet for $165 with 2 drawer base, cover and free shipping on one of those crazy Amazon deals. With all the jigs and dressing tools I have less in my setup than the basic Tormek.
I have nothing against the Tormek. They are great machines. The deal I got on the Jet was the key for me. By the way the original Tormek did not have a stainless shaft. With just good habits and practices of proper cleaning and lubrication there should be no issues with either.
Good Luck
Alan