I suspect Mr. Hunter may be close to the truth. I had a hard time getting the pilot bearing in there (remember, there is a 1mm difference which I did my best to rectify) but it did go in pretty snugly. Hard to know how much snug is the factory tight fit and how much is too tight. If that proves to be the issue I think I'll just have one turned in bronze. Next winter! I can run it like it is for this season.

And thanks for your input!

Dan