yeah, you guys are confirming what I thought, too... sounded like a bearing going out.

not sure whether i will run it a while or try and repair it - i need to finish this thing soon, as i've got classes starting in a month and then no more free time.

by the way, everyone i know in the minneapolis area seems to be accounted for after tonight's disaster. i drive right by that bridge every day during my commute and have traversed it probably a thousand times. thoughts go out to everyone who may live in the twin cities or know someone in the area. hope all is well, wherever you are.

thanks guys.