Heater fan makes a big squeaking noise...

[Fiat88]

Every time I turn on my heater fan blower, it makes a terrible squeaking sound, both when I turn it on high or low. Fan motor? Thanks.

[baltobernie]

There's not a lot of clearance between the fan blades and the heater housing, and the fan motor is mounted in rubber bushings. Owners often find that over time, the blades will strike the housing. But this a more a rattle sound than a squeal.

Insects can build nests in there, too. In most locations, these fans aren't used much. Are you getting any airflow at either fan speed?

I definitely would not purchase another motor until I disassembled the housing and examined the assembly

[mdrburchette]

Yep, once you pull it out and try turning it by hand, you'll be able to determine if you need to replace it. I just replaced mine in the 71 with a good used one. I would guess you could grease the bearing up and it'll last a little while longer, but my experience is once you get that sucker out, you won't want to have to pull it all back out again to replace it.