I took the blender apart today. Upon breakdown, a broken washer/spacer (looks like nylon) fell out of the motor. I disassembled the brush holder and lightly sanded the commutator (which was almost black. I reassembled the motor and I was able to start the blender, but it was still sparking and making a stuttering noise. I should probably replace the brushes, right? As for the washer/spacer. I'll call Blendtec and see if they'll sell me a replacement or give me the spec sheet on it so I can source it somewhere else. Fingers crossed, it's a $1500 blender!