How's the airflow? If there is enough lint in the rest of the dryer (that screen doesn't catch anywhere near all of it) the airflow could be blocked a bit (or there could be a kink in the hose). If the airflow is blocked there won't be enough air to keep the heater element cool... there could be an overtemp limit on that element so the house doesn't burn down.

The other thoughts on the motor sound pretty good too. Especially with the 5 minute restart thing.

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John Robbins
'05 E320 CDI - 240k
'87 300TD - 318k