There seems to be a clear difference between the "original" Alt-Az mount from AOK Swiss and the Chinese copy that is sold by Orion. Sticktion is a non issue on my swiss made AOK Ayo Alt-Az. That is also the reason that a slow-mo is not necessary even for high magnification viewing.

The problem on the Orion made Alt-Az reminds me a bit of the comparison between a Japanese made Vixen GP with the Synta line of GEM's. The Synta mounts are not bad but many people had problems with the grease used which was sticky...
I would certainly have a look inside to see what is causing the sticktion on your mounts, maybe it can be corrected.

Cheers
Chris