Interior fan replaced problem

[Guyton Buzz]

AC fan always ran very strong in this car, which I have had for about a year. Started squeaking, I knew the end was near for the blower motor. It died on a 95 degree day on way back from Augusta. I had a spare on the shelf. When I swapped it out (wiper motor removed, etc.) I found that:

1. Unit in car had been replaced before, junk yard crayon marks on it, and scratches all around the metal clips that hold together the plastic housing that surrounds the fan.

2. The two rear metal clips had not been latched down by previous work. So the big fresh air damper plate that swings just above the fan housing could never close more than about 50% without catching on the clips.

3. With clips in correct position, used fan I installed is working, seems cooler, and quieter. Not as much air flow. Made sure to oil the fan bearings before install. Now to get the next spare from the boneyard. New ones are pricey, and I'm not sure how well I could swap a motor with those tender plastic blower wheels.