I replaced the motor in my dryer and it wasn't too bad a job. In the process I had to expose the heating element. It was easier to get to than the motor. www.repairguru.com is just one of many sites where you can get assistance diagnosing and repairing your dryer. I saved a couple hundred dollars by doing it myself.

Definitely check your vent and lint trap first.

Good luck and have fun. It's not that hard to do. Remember to unplug it before doing any disassembly!