Looking at changing out a dead blower motor. When I looked at the plastic shroud covering it and the evaporater, this plastic was soft and brittle; it just disinigrated when touched. manual says to use razor knive to cut; well, I can use a thumbnail! Question is will not having this shroud cut short the life of new blower motor? Can't really see going to a bone yard and looking for a good condition shroud for a '96 chevy blazer.
Did it go soft from blr overheating? It has been acting up (works/ doesn't work) for about 3 yrs. Any brands to avoid with new motor? Thanks to all who reply!

 

I think the condition of the material just falls under the heading of '**** happens' due to age and underhood environment. When you go to replace the cover just use RTV sealant around it.