Well, got everything apart, and it looked like there was very little lint near the heater element. It took a little bit of thinking, though to figure out exactly how the belt tensioner should be positioned, but I got it back together. I turned the dryer on (it worked!) and noticed a slight burning smell again, but I think it went away. Maybe eliminating as much lint as possible is the key. I did vacuum the inside rear of the dryer when the back vent was off. Maybe that is all that is needed. I'll hate it if I ever have to replace the heating element, or fuse. That'll be a bit of work. Was nice w/the Maytag when that stuff was on top. Thanks for your help.
Sorry, I didn't find any loose change, just a few baby socks.