2nd Gen Econoline Blower Motor Access
 

I've got a '73 E-300. Heat quit working the other day, no warning whatsoever. I thought maybe fuse, but thats good. Then I thought resistor, but it quit at all settings, so probably not. I initially didn't suspect the blower motor because there was no warning, but now I'd like to get to it and give it a few taps to see if it will turn before I spend the $$$ to replace it.

My problem is that, while I've located the heater assembly, I can't seem to find a way to open it for easy(-ish) access to the motor. My only viable option right now looks like draining the coolant to pull the whole unit. Any suggestions?

I replaced mine in my '72 E300 Supervan.
Remove the battery and the mounting bolts for the blower rare behind it.
It is not a fun job, so be prepared.

I made the mistake of replacing it with one from Schucks/Oreilly Auto Parts.
It never made the RPM of the original and I would suggest getting one from an OEM.

Or, get yours rebuilt.

I decided to bite the bullet and order a new motor AND resistor from Rock Auto. I don't want to have to get back in there again. Lets hope they're quality parts. I was hoping there would be an easier way to access (not necessarily remove / repair), but it doesn't look like there is.

Thanks for the feedback, even just to confirm what I already didn't want to believe ;)