Ok I'll take your word for it and replace the wires. I will also look into the crackling sound and will get back with you when I find out what the problem seems to be. Thanks for your help and hang on until I get back.

I will have to look. Are you talking about the supplied wires that came with the fuse having the spade connectors on the wires? If memory serves me correctly, and I have realize that at over 50 my memory is nothing like it was in my 40's ha.ha, I don't think I did I think I just used the old wires and swapped out the fuses. I still have the wires that came with the new fuse. So why would it make a difference which wires I used? I will take the cover off and look and/or hear to determine where the problem resides.

I presently own a Whirlpool Model# DU1055XTSB1. The model number has been verified. Approximately 3 months ago the control lights were out and the unit would not come on. I checked the breaker and it had not tripped and after searching on the internet I determined that the unit had a thermal fuse located behind the control panel. I checked the fuse for continunity and determined the unit was blown. After ordering another one replaced the unit and it ran until a couple of days ago. Checked the fuse and was blown again. While waiting for the replacement to arrive decided to jump-out the fuse and finish washer a load of dishes when the fuse blew. Shortly after starting the washer I started hearing a sound coming from under the washer. It sounded very similar to a motor arching. I have a electrical power background so am very familar with this sound. I am in the process determining whether to repair or replace. The unit is just over 5 years old and paid at the time around $400 at a local Lowes store. So if someone could comment on what the sound could possibly be and if I do the repair myself if feasible to repair or should I just replace the unit.