Mainsheet block sticking

I tried tirelessly to lubricate the ratcheting pulley without success. I was about to dunk the whole thing in oil when I decided that maybe I could use an air compressor to dislodge some of the dirt which I could hear grinding as I spun the pulley. I am unsure if any dirt was freed, but the compressed air seems to have delivered the lubricant into the bearing. The pulley will now spin through most of its revolution freely with some occasional resistance. It is now free enough to release the mainsheet in all but a very light wind. With continued use, and further lubrication, I believe I can get it back to full working condition. Now the only question remaining is how much use can I milk out of a 28 year old block.

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'73 Hobie 16
1970's styrofoam snark

mmm there is something I don't understand. The ratcheting pulley should not turn when you release the sheet (if the ratchet is activated). Yours does turn?

No, the ratchet doesn't turn unless I release it. I wasn't aware that it was supposed to do that. In that case, what else could be causing my main not to release? All the other pulleys spin freely. I am using 3/8'' rope so clearances are fine.

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'73 Hobie 16
1970's styrofoam snark