Further to this thread, got the blower motor out, tested it with 12v to the two motor leads, no nothing. I had tested it in place as well, but hoped I was wrong.

This motor does not want to be taken apart; the caps that the armature goes through are crimped on to the case. If I didn't destroy them taking them off, I'll clean it up & put brushes and report back, with some pics if I'm lucky.

thanks