007_e350

guys, while replacing the Aux Battery I noticed extremely rusted blower motor (central metallic piece) - no wonder it squeaks at low speeds -- I'm gonna try to spray WD-40 but eventually swap out to a new one if anyone could post some tips -

fortlaudsummer

Try this thread...it helped me a great deal:
https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w211/330722-squeaking-hvac-fan.html

jimbo1mcm

Detailed procedure on the service DVD

Clinton Horn

I did this recently and posted some pics. I can't find the link here so it may be gone. Nevertheless, I bought a Behr replacement on line for $129. It is a duplicate of the OEM part and even had the MB star logo on the motor frame disfigured as it is sold as an aftermarket part. You must re install the motor speed controller from the old part. Very simple procedure, two screws and a electrical clip. You will need a set of torx screwdrivers for the job. Start by removing the knee panel beneath the glove compartment door, pay attention to the connection of the foot warming duct that is integral with the panel. Re attaching it was the hardest part of the job. The blower is housed in a plastic scroll case. 4 Screws to expose it and 4 more to remove it. Electrical connections are squeeze hard and pull gently. Probably a 1 to 1.5 hour job first time. There is a new part number for this motor. I could not determine that it is an improvement. My replacement appears to be a duplicate of the original so I would guess that it will fail pre- maturely as well. The bearings are sealed and dry out from the heat. I would stay away from used parts. This piece is short lived anyway and I see some e- bay sellers trying to get $200 for a 4 year old part. I don't see any reason to consider that

SEC1939

dealer replaced mine under warranty at 98,000 miles

007_e350

Thanks Clinton- I was thinking of accessing it from the hood / firewall side ... I hate putting together interior amenities and then they're not aligned w/ each other ... Is that a possibility ?

Clinton Horn

Even though you can see the fan squirrel cage from the engine bay, it has to come out from the interior. The panel is not hugely difficult, it has a small 2 in square duct that mates up to a square discharge nozzle with a damper at the tranny hump. I BELIEVE the discharge nozzle fits inside the panel duct opening. I persisted in trying it the wrong way and it would not fit. You cannot align the screw holes unless it is right. I don't want to dramatize the difficulty. If you are limber, it is a pretty simple job. You are going to be in the footwell with your body either out of the passenger door or legs over the seat.