On Mon, 13 Mar 2017 23:16:42 -0400, wrote:

Replacing the spring and cord without lubricating the pivot won't
make it any better - - -

In hind sight, leaving it outside in the rain all winter wasn't a good
idea.

What happened is, as you had surmised, I think, is that the spring rusted,
causing friction.

Adding copious amounts of motor oil made it work nicely, but maybe I put
too much oil as it's a dirty environment (time will tell); but it's working
beautifully now.
http://i.cubeupload.com/gtScGb.jpg

Thanks!