Abu Garcia Cardinal 104 Spinning Reel Noise. Bearing Upgrade?

I bought an Abu Garcia Cardinal 104C Spin Reel.
I put it on a Bill Dance Signature Series rod but found the Reel Casted WAY WAY better on the Browning Silaflex rod.

At first I thought the reel was top notch. it HAD complete silence operation.
I took the reel fishing for only the 4th time when I noticed it started having a rough feel and a slight noise
when reeling. I took the reel apart and found the reel had NO FACTORY LUBRICATION AT ALL.
I lubed the reel up good with some synthetic grease and light oil but it made no difference.
I concluded the rough feel and noise must be from one or more of the sealed bearings.

Does anyone know of a bearing upgrade to this reel or replacement bearing parts?
Abu Garcia wants me to send the reel to them for inspection BUT that would mean I will have to pay postage
just for them to tell me its not covered since I took the reel apart my self and lubricated it.