Got it opened. That tip on getting the top housing off came in handy. Don't know if there's different versions of the chassis out there but mine had 7 screws on the bottom. Not that difficult to get into at all. As for the toasty electronics... it's going to have to remain a mystery for now. I inspected the motor drive board, the scan board, etc. and everything thing looks absolutely pristine. As for fans... there are none. The noise it makes when on comes from the motors so they must have some kind of flywheel.
Well... thanks again. I'll continue on scanning until the thing croaks (which hopefully isn't anytime soon... my Spectroscan/Spectrolino has quickly become one of my favorite pieces of gear).
Cheers, Joe