Since the XPFM is sold for florescent fixtures as well, having local control isn't really a great idea. That said I turned my fan off, pulled the fan chain till it cycled through off and then back on. Sure enough the XPFM clicked and the fan came on so mine has local control even though I'd rather it not.
...Yes the XPFM is just an "old brown appliance module" with attached wires. If you don't mind voiding your warrenty...
I don't mind doing the mod. While I'm inclined to agree that the XPFM circuit is basically the same as an "old brown appliance module", the layout inside my XPFM is significantly different from the online appliance module boards. e.g. The chip is on the opposite side of the board from as the other components and turned 90
o. I'd be guessing as to what lead to cut.
So what size resistor do you recommend and will it effect energy use significantly?