Fortunately, yesterday afternoon was reasonably cool, for Houston in August, at any rate.

Stopped by MB and picked up a new fan motor.

I only ran the A/C while I was moving on the freeway - didn't notice any adverse effects.

Got home, checked AllDataDIY and was sad to learn that you have to remove the fans as AN ASSEMBLY WITH THE CONDENSER!!!

I figured someone's smoking crack - surely they're kidding, right?

Almost - the high pressure port sticks through the shroud assembly facing forward, making it virtually impossible to remove the fan assembly. Also, part of the shroud wraps around the lower pressure hose leading (I assume) from the condenser. I managed to free it without breaking anything, but it took some doing.

Once I got it out, I discovered that the fan spins freely. I checked it before I started the work and it was definitely binding - which I assumed was failed bushings/bearings.

Gave it a spin and a listen - no noisy bearings - at least it sounded just like it's partner. Hand spin both, they both stop about the same time.

Took the opportunity to clean the condenser of miscellaneous leaves, bug carcasses (carci?) and general road gunk before reinstalling fan.

All is well again.