My machine does not have a front panel. Access is from the bottom. I took the top panels off and turned it over and as I suspected the belt, removed the cover over it. There appeared to be oil on the pulleys so I removed the belt, cleaned both the drive and tub pulleys, inspected the area and put it back together. I had researched the problem and found 99% of the time the clutch was the cause of this particular noise condition. I ordered a clutch and a belt (just in case) but the machine worked fine before the parts arrived. So now I have a working washer and repair parts on hand if the need arises.