Your problem is the blower motor, The noise is the bearings, I would also replace the Cap if the uf reading is more than 5% low, if you don't have a meter then just replace the Capacitor as the bad motor has more than likely damaged the existing cap due to the extra load the motor has put on it. (A cap for that size motor should not cost more than $20) I don't know why some of these crackers are asking you about checking the belt and such, when you state its direct drive... If Your cap was the only issue the motor would make a buzzing sound and not start.
