Christy,
I know this has nothing to do with your motor, but I have a theory on motors. I hope you don't mind me saying it.
If they:
>Are clean
>have good wiring
>run good and strong
I leave 'em alone.
Considering how that motor looks, I wouldn't take it apart until after the gear was replaced and I'd test run the machine.
That's just me I guess.
Joe