9 hours ago, paulraphael said:Any ideas?
Welcome to the club. I think you're probably right that food gunk is the culprit. And based on my similar experience, it's probably at or near the head. Maybe there's some age- hardening of oil at the motor end, though.
I have only two suggestions if you've already opened the shaft sleeve: (1) an ultrasonic cleaner; or (2) an immersible cleaning solution such as Dunk-It, sold for cleaning guns without disassembly.
You might also try lubricating the shaft bearings with food-safe grease, and /or backing off the fasteners that might be binding the shaft from turning freely.
Good luck.