Keep Furnace Case?

[72BamaStream]

So, the old furnace is out... I am in the process of designing the cabinetry for the sink area, question (well, 2 really... actually 3):

1. Is it crucial to keep the old furnace case?
2. If I do choose to replace the furnace in the future can a newer model use the old casing?
3. Someone mentioned a "catalytic" heater/furnace in another thread... would it be placed in the same spot and, once again, use the existing case?

I don't want to design the cabinets around this space only to learn that it's not necessary/best-practice to keep the old case...

Happy Wednesday everybody!
Thanks for all your help!

[Melody Ranch]

I am planning to put in a catalytic heater and make a storage compartment (pantry) in the space left by the old furnace...recently converted to a boat anchor. I got the pantry idea from one of our great innovator members here....photos are somewhere in the threads.

[72BamaStream]

Thanks! I agree, boat anchor it shall become!

Definitely opens up that area for proper cabinet space, thanks!

[overlander63]

I removed the old furnace case from our Sovereign, it opened up a lot of under-counter storage.
The catalytic heater needs to be placed where it will get ventillationabove and in front of it, so putting it in the old furnace case is not advised. Ours is mounted on the short "wall" between the kitchen counter and front door, facing the front of the trailer. It has kept the entire trailer warm in temps into the upper 20's in that location.

[Lumatic]

If you replace the old furnace with a new one keeping the old furnace base will simplify using the existing ductwork. I also used furnace cabinet front by cutting in down and using it. Basicly the old furnace cabinet was used to make a downdraft plenum for the new furnace.

[72BamaStream]

So I did end up pulling the case out... it's in good shape, I guess I could post a thread for anybody that needs it... for now, for what I want my AS for, I believe I will build the cabinets assuming that a furnace will not be put in the old space; I live in the deep south and I am pretty confident that my AS travels will be more reliant upon an air conditioner being functional... eventually I will probably go the catalytic route thanks to all the info I have discovered here... as far as the duct work... not certain if I will take the time to pull it out or simply cap it off under the sink ... hmmm not sure what to do with the vent by/on the tub but... not a major priority right now .... moving along!

As always... much thanks to all who contribute to my adventure! And even to those who don't directly...