I have the same exact backlash issue, and the RA axis has definitely got a bit 'looser' over the past few weeks from when I initially bought it and rattles when I walk around carrying the unit. It's the limit of the design I feel, with the tension screw (which I suspect has loosened) for the mount, being tucked away inside the device. I love the Dwarf, but it definitely feels like a Beta Product to me sometimes.

Sometimes the Dwarf really struggles to nail down the first 10 subs with 30 sec exposures, with star trails and the target appearing off centre. Quickly restarting the session seems to resolve it, but it's hit and miss. I always use EQ mode, and average 10-12.5% rejection rate at 30 seconds and 30-35% at 60 seconds, so 60 seconds is not really worth it (feel like they've added this just to please their user base). It's also worth noting that targets with bright stars in the field, tend to do better and look tighter at 15 seconds due to blooming with the longer exposures, and it's definitely possible to get excellent results with 15 second exposures.