sounds like your elements have cracked and gone bad. the air hitting them opens them up. i would get teh actual model number off the furnace and/or elements and google it to see if you cna find them somewhere. if you do and decide to replace them yourself, kill teh breaker. they have 120v on them at all times!

I would be very surprised if these elements or a substitute can't be found at an authorized Trane dealer. Trane purchased GE residential HVAC in the 80s. Make certain you have all docs and mdl number for the air handler.

IMO

thanks guys I will try to find a source to purchase the elements. Can I restring them instaed? We thought that we would have to replace the unit but if we can repair, that would be great!