AR ES–1 Problem.... Suggestions

I have an AR ES–1 turntable that has been in storage for a while. I have set it up and now hear a soft rubbing–grinding coming from the bearing, I believe. I have removed the inner platter and gently swabed the bearing and bearing spindle and relubricated same. This has made no difference.Does this mean the bearing is bad or the bearing seat or what? I realize this isn't a high end unit but when it was new I replaced the horrible stock arm with a Sumiko Premier MMT and a Sure V15 5 MR cartridge that is still pretty low mileage. I would rather try to remedy the problem than upgrade at this time. Does anyone have any experience with this problem?? Any ideas??Thanks