If it were mine I would approach Robert Wagoner at Electric Jet Factory (www.ejf.com) and ask for his advice. I'm guessing he would suggest one of the Schubler fans with a Neu motor and LiPo battery pack.

Of course, in return for his advice, I'd buy the equipment from him.

Another thought is post this question on the Ezone. There is a lot more traffic over there that deals with EDF's in general.

Rest assured you are not the first to attempt this conversion. Somebody at either EJF or the Ezone has done this exact switch.