Ever try compressing the tailstock quill? Fixed mine.

Bacon fat is the move, no question. I keep a little jar in my fridge too and a light brush on potatoes or even brussels sprouts gives you that crispy edge you just can't get from the spray stuff. Duck fat is the other one worth trying if you ever have some, but bacon fat is cheaper and you get it for free every time you cook bacon.

Try counting your setup moves next, because I bet the guys chasing 412 strokes are also the ones walking back to the bucket ten times an hour. Fewer trips and bigger beds keeps the mud warm and workable, which is probably why your wall came out flatter than the small-batch guys.