Heater element stuck

This thread was marked as solved. Here's a summary of the problem and the fix, generated from the discussion below.

Washing machine heater element partly withdrawn but snagging internally

The problem

A Hotpoint washing machine heater element could not be removed fully after the central bolt was undone and tapped through. The element came out part way, then appeared to catch on something inside the tub.

Likely cause

The accepted reply said the element may be snagging on a foreign object inside, specifically an underwire from a bra tangled around it. This was presented as a probable explanation, not a confirmed fault.

What fixed it

Recommended action was to remove the sump hose and feel for any foreign object obstructing the element. If the element still could not be removed, the machine would need further strip-down; the reply noted that many drums are not designed to be taken apart. The exact repair was not confirmed in the thread.

Checks to try

• Central bolt undone and tapped through
• Element withdrawn part way before catching
• Suggested check via sump hose for a foreign object

Parts or tools mentioned

• Sump hose