Mine has never hesitated to slide in, but it occasionally binds as it starts moving out. This is annoying but easy to handle. The problem is with the two big black swing-out supports under the slide. When you retract the slide, they swing in and can actually swing in just a bit too far. Then when they need to swing out again, they bind. If this happens, the solution is to grab each one at the end nearest the slide, and tug it outward firmly. It won't move far - less than half an inch - but that frees it up and the slide moves as expected.
As for your other question, what to do if the motor or the drive mechanism fails. You will need an open-end or combination wrench. I think the size is 7/16", but I need to confirm. Make sure you stash the wrench where you can get at it even if the slide is stuck. Then, get on your back under the TM, up near the front. You will see the motor hanging down, with a bolt holding it in place. Remove the bolt, and swing the motor aside to disconnect it from the drive mechanism. You can now move the slide manually, just like we used to do in the old days.
Bill
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