Defroster making a funny noise

[donnieknoxville]

For the past couple of years, my 1987 Carrera Cab has made an interesting noise.

When its below 50 degress or so, when I pull up on the defrost lever between the seats, a second or two will pass, then I will hear a slow, repetitive wine from an area near the passenger side footwell. It sounds like a fan that needs some oil. If I do nothing, it will continue to to emit a wha, wha, wha, wha, sound. The corrective action is usually to switch the defrost center console dial from position 1 to position 3 to get the fan moving faster. Once its run a little faster for maybe 10-30 seconds, I can switch back to position 1 or 2 without having the sound reappear.

Usually only happens during the winter months when its a little colder outside.

Any thoughts on a more permanent fix - and assuming its the fan / blower motor. Also, how do I get to it to inspect and repair?

Thanks in advance for any thoughts.

Don