'04 4Runner heater blower Replacement

[pag04]

The blower motor on my '04 is making a loud rumbling type noise. Sounds like the bearings are gone. I've been looking at threads to figure out how how big a job it is to replace this and it seems like it is a real PITA. It seems with earlier models it was just a matter of removing the glovebox. On the '04 it looks like part of the center console has to be removed and some other trim and the glovebox to get the motor out.
Is that right? Has anyone replaced the blower on an '04? How big a job is it?

Thanks.

 

[Asmara]

The blower motor on my '04 is making a loud rumbling type noise. Sounds like the bearings are gone. I've been looking at threads to figure out how how big a job it is to replace this and it seems like it is a real PITA. It seems with earlier models it was just a matter of removing the glovebox. On the '04 it looks like part of the center console has to be removed and some other trim and the glovebox to get the motor out.
Is that right? Has anyone replaced the blower on an '04? How big a job is it?

Thanks.

My was doing the same thing. It is really easy to get out. I found the attached TSB and used it as a guide and while I followed it, I remember I didn't have to take off half of what it said to access the blower motor screws. Stick your head under there, it may be that you don't have to remove anything.

I also didn't follow the instructions for disconnecting the negative battery terminal. Over in that area is the ECU for the transfer case and I guess they are worried that if you damage the ECU or disconnect it while it has power you might fry something else.

 

[sjoefl01]

My blower motor is making the slightest noise. Is there any chance to lubricate it or change the bearings before it gets worse? I hate to replace a toyota motor with some Chineese imitation if I don't have to. I also don't want to pay dealership prices for a fan motor. I guess I want to have my cake and eat it too.

 

[Asmara]

My blower motor is making the slightest noise. Is there any chance to lubricate it or change the bearings before it gets worse? I hate to replace a toyota motor with some Chineese imitation if I don't have to. I also don't want to pay dealership prices for a fan motor. I guess I want to have my cake and eat it too.

When I pulled mine, it didn't look like there was any easy way to lubricate the motor but then I noticed that the cap over the center spindle of the motor was cracked. I broke that the rest of the way off, lubricated the motor and used an old applesauce cup from the kids to silicone in a new cap. I figured the cap would keep out the dust and keep oil from dripping onto the floorboards. That was a few months ago and the sound has never returned. Worth a shot given how easy it is to do. The apple sauce cup was a bit big but it was all I had laying around.