I've decided I have to strip down the DEC axis and regrease it properly. I'm going to follow the step-by-step description of a GPDX re-grease on this site:
http://arnholm.org/astro/index.htm
I think the principles will apply for my mount. Take it slowly, be methodical and make sure of each step before going on.
The RA axis is smooth and I'm not touching that...