Tony, in my experience, a mast lubricated with Triflow (a silicon lubricant) worked for over two years without a hitch. After the 20K mile service performed by Volvo dealer I got the clean dry mast you speak of. The clean dry mast seized the same week I picked up the car from the dealership. I took the mast out, lubricated it with Triflow, worked it well to get rid of the kinks and once it operated smoothly, replaced it back into the motor assembly. It's been over a month now of flawless operation. Just my personal experience.