Ah, more phone shots that won't post any way other than on their side. I feel your pain. There is no defeating the presumptuous algorithm. I've tried rotating and saving, but the result is still the same when posting.
I think you're on the right track with the defrost timer. Given it's age, I suppose by now it's entitled to make some noise. The timer behind the grille on my mom's '75 Coldspot made a soft clicking/tapping noise for many years. It wasn't bad enough to be annoying, though. You might be able to just replace the motor portion if it's removable and you can track one down. There may be a part or item number along with specs on the motor that would preclude the need for the Amana model number.