Front Brakes ain't what they used to be

[misterprofessionality]

Yes, I do grease up the slide pins each time I change the pads, which with my mileage is pretty close to what you're describing. As far as the pivot point goes, it isn't really the smoothness that's in jeopardy. It's more like an engagement issue. It almost feels like the back pressure on the piston in in the master cylinder is reduced.