Reebok R system Rower HELP needed.

[omega23]

I recently purchased a York R510 multi use rower. Rowing was working fine but after a month starting playing up etc. I returned this rower and in it's place purchased the above (more expensive)Reebok model. The Reebok arrived today and after assembly I quickly tested the rower. For some reason each resistance setting feels exactly the same as the setting before it. I rang the Reebok helpline and they told me in transit the friction tape sometimes come loose. I have since adjusted the tape and there is no noticeable improvement. With my old York rower you could feel the difference moving between the resistance levels. Even it's highest level the Reebok feels as slack as the York did on level 1. I don't know what to do next as this rower was the last model in the price scale that I am willing to pay. Any help would be appreciated........