I bought my X-52 used, have owned it for 2 years, and have not once ever had any kind of problems. I incorporated a set of CH pedals as well..
For lube, I have an old bottle of dish soap.. The hardened soap on top works fantastic and gets rid of any squeaks or anything.. Love this stick and will
be sad when/if it breaks..
I'm fond of the CH pedals as well.. If their sticks are half as good as their pedals, that's probably what I'll be getting next..