On Wed, 19 May 2010 07:59:03 -0700, Darro wrote:
Hi,

Is there anything I can do to get the electric motor for my favorite
desktop fan to start up properly again?

how are the bearings? Does it turn freely? use sewing machine oil
for lubrication. use wd40 if you want to ruin it.

are the brushes and commutator visible? signs of wear?

If it's a cheap POS, you should just replace it.