my choke does nothing for the first half then movement can be heard for the second half? and it is rather firm... should it be easy to slide?

sorry about the confusing editing markr

 

On mine, I have nothing for the first half and then the choke starts to come in.
mine is a little firm on the second half, but not a hassle to move.

 

Actuation does not happen until about 1/2 way, but lever should be smooth through it entire travel. I just lubed mine (I try to lube everything in FSM lube chart at the beginning of each season). Note, this cable inner has a nylon sheath and petroleum based lubes (3-1, wd40,etc) should not be used as they can/will swell the inner. Silicone spray is the way to go.