GE dryer model DDE7209RALWW not working

[Jennie Nelson Snipes]

Hello. I have a GE dryer model DDE7209RALWW, which I've had for 22 years. It is having a problem, and I was trying to decide whether to fix it or replace it. I called a repairman to ask some questions, but haven't had him come yet.  Someone in another thread said that it is one of the best dryers ever made, so I'd like to fix it instead of getting a new dryer. I don't know anything about fixing appliances, but my husband might try if we can get some help. Or at least to know whether to call the repairman or try it ourselves. 

The dryer has been repaired twice for fairly inexpensive problems, but unfortunately I don't remember what was done. The problem now: I pressed the start button, but it didn't start running at first. It made a long buzzing noise for about 4 seconds and then started, but it sounded noisy as it ran.  I decided to let it run and see what happened. It did make some noises, but dried the clothes. I tried to start it again to see what would happen, and it made the drawn-out buzzing sound again but wouldn't start turning. Then I pushed the button again, and it won't do anything. 

Can you tell what might be wrong? Thank you!

 

[AARDL]

Sounds to me like a motor

WE17X10010Part number: WE17X10010

[Samurai Appliance Repair Man]

Turn the drum by hand to make sure it's not bound up. Should turn freely. If not, then the front drum support slides are probably worn through and binding the motor. 

If the drum turns smoothly and freely, then replace the motor as Brother AARDL suggested.

[Jennie Nelson Snipes]

My husband says there are nylon cords on each side, but one is gone or broken. What are these cords, and can we replace them? Are these the slides? If not, what do the slides look like? 

[Gnominator77]

Part number: WE25X60