[BC_Dan]

One thing that sometimes works on stuck grease fittings... take a heat gun and heat up the fitting and the metal around it. Sometimes that will soften the grease inside that is clogging up things. I would try that before removing and soaking, it can save you a step.

There are also tools that you can use to clear the fitting and channels. The tool is filled with grease and you apply the tool and hit it with a hammer. The force is substantially greater than the grease gun and it can blast the fitting and channel free.

 

[BC_Dan]

I would look for something rubber, like a chunk of rubber conveyor belting. Wood may not last very long, as the ski rocks back and forth at the pivot point...

 

[BC_Dan]

Gotta like your ingenuity!

I hope it works out for you and you make it through the season with no issues!