Furnace odor

[PAL07]

When operating furnace in 89 Excella, the heat comes with a stale dusty odor. My guess is something in heating system needs cleaning.
Any advice on what and how to access it?

[Protagonist]

Most furnaces, home or RV, will have a scorched odor when started up for the first time each winter, as the dust that has accumulated on the heating element is burned off. The smell should disappear on its own. If it doesn't disappear, then a small vacuum cleaner applied to the heating element from inside the trailer should do the trick. But vacuum the heating element after the heater has cooled down. No sense risking a burn.

[PAL07]

The odor does continue with usage. Will try the vacuum approach. Is the element accessible without removing the Magic Chef oven above it?

[idroba]

I hate to suggest it, but there is a possibility that a mouse or other critter died in your ductwork. I have never hand lingering odor in my furnace in any of the RV's I have owned, and that is way too many.

[ventport]

It should have a removable door facing the hallway. If it's a Suburban furnace there are 2 screws, one on each side of the door, centered up & down.

[PAL07]

Interesting point. I just noticed a repair to the duct under sink area, and was wondering why it had been repaired. I think I know now.
Will begin inspecting ducts, starting with that one.