I first checked the wiring for faults, but did not find any issues. Then I attempted something along the lines of what you were saying - to basically hotwire the fan - and now the fan turns very slowly with a grumbling sound and the wire got hot quick before any fuses blew. So I ordered another FAL motor from summit. Also bought some heat reflective tape for the metal circle backing of the FAL fan, and wiring. Hope it's not to difficult to switch out.

Thanks for your input!

2gnt: '99 RS-T, killed by a toyota, pending rebuild...
Daily: Volt
Daily #2: '99 EVG ebike- STOLEN by PEDRO