Lower blower motor speeds only work after high is selected

[billfrank85]

So I had the all too common issue of only high working so I replaced the blower motor resistor with the Motorcraft part. Now the lower speeds only work after I select high first and then work my way down. I thoroughly cleaned both sides of the wiring harness when I replaced the resistor. The blower motor itself is roughly 5 years old. Any thoughts on what would cause that?

01 Ranger 3.0

 

[SenorNoob]

WAG; but, motor worn and dragging requiring the power of high speed to initially overcome?

 

[RobbieD]

WAG; but, motor worn and dragging requiring the power of high speed to initially overcome?

I'm thinking the same thing.

 

[billfrank85]

I do notice that on lower speeds it seems to struggle to stay at a consistent speed. Sort of reminds me of an engine with a stumble during idle.

 

[RobbieD]

You could pull the blower and see how free the motor shaft feels by rotating the sguirrel cage by hand. Maybe a gob of cat hair is wrapped around the shaft.

While it's out, you can see if you can band-aid it by trying to get some penetrating oil onto the motor shaft bearings, or just bite the bullet and replace it.

I just can't think of any other explanation for the symptoms, that the fan motor is worn. I think it's more likely shaft bearings, rather than brushes.

Sadly, replacement parts seem to last just a fraction of what time an original part will last.

 

[SenorNoob]

Something to keep in mind. They can be built with bearings or a bushing. I've also seen blower motors that were brushless and some that weren't. All for different models of Ranger/Explorer.

Brushless with bearings would be best IMO.