Definately lube the track- generic silicone spray works just as well IMO as the much more expensive sailcote.
Also, check the sheave at the top of your mast to see if it is still free-wheeling. My boat was an absolute pain to raise the main until I realized the sheev at the top was toast and actually wore a groove in it so it didn't even have the incentive to roll! Easy to fix and made a big difference.