Replaced timer and knob. The knob had a reinforced shaft!
After looking on line I have decided in future to turn the knob not only gently but ONLY in the clockwise direction.
Also; Got the correct part number from AppliancePartsPros.com parts website....other sources had the wrong part listed for this GE dryer... Knew ahead of time they were wrong because I pulled the back off the front panel a peeked and compared with photos listed ;)