Thanks guys!
I smothered the rod in WD40 and got the machine to print two loads without failure... but it still sounds odd. Too loud and shrill, but not as bad as before.
Maybe I'll get to opening it up and clean the hidden parts, but that might do more harm then good with my technical skills
I'll have a look into the guide posted above and see what can be done.
While I'd prefer having no issues at all, I must say, I'm fascinated by the amount of tinkering and replacing you can do with such an item...