Valley Diverter hard to turn

[edb00]

I have a 10+ year hold Valley II three handle tub/shower valve. Recently the diverter has been getting harder to turn and the valves leaked a little. I replaced one cartridge and both seals/springs and the leak has stopped.
I removed the diverter and couldn't see any problems. But its now really hard to get it back in and it barely truns.
Not wanting to breaK it I've pushed it back in in the shower position and began looking for solutions.
So here I am, any ideas?

Thanks