Jim,
This is an easy fix. Over time, dirt and gunk accumulates on the bearing  
surfaces. Simply spray a liberal amount of WD-40 over the bearing surface as you  
have a crew member operate the furling mechanism. I use the long red 
extension  to get inside the mast. Some will drip to the deck and you can either place 
a  cloth on the deck or clean the dirty mess up after the fact. I do this 
probably  twice a year. I'm always amazed at the difference it makes, especially 
during  the furling process. I always wonder why it took me so long to do it 
once I'm  done. :)
 
Rummy