The other day we noticed a strange "whuh. Whuh. Whuh" sound and actually thought there was a helicopter close. Now there is little to no air blowing from the vents. The catch is sometimes it works for a minute or two then dies.

My guess is the resistor but I don't know where to find it. About to start dis assembling the dash. if anyone has a better idea or can point me in the right direction that would be great.

 

Sounds like the resister for the blower motor. It's usually behind the dash. The part is very cheap but labor is about an hour. Chrysler is known for that. Had one fixed on my dodge years ago. Hope that helps.

 

Sounds like a bad blower motor. When it heats up it dies.

 

I found the resistor, it was rusty but no one has them in stock. I think it's going to end up being the motor as well

 

I just did a new switch and resistor this weekend for my dad's XJ and fixed the same problem you describe. Start with the cheapest and easiest parts first.

 

I soaked the resistor in rubbing alcohol for about 10 minutes, brushed it with an old toothbrush to remove the rust and corrosion and fired it back up. It worked about as well it did when I first noticed the problem (way better than the last couple days.)

BUT the resistor was burning hot after just a couple minutes.

In this heat (103 today) I can't tolerate much down time. I'm going to order both the resistor and the motor. If the resistor solves it I'm back in shape for $10. If not the new motor is only $100.
Any idea what kind of restocking fee I'm facing if I go this route.
Also what are the odds I need the motor and not just the resistor?