Resistance when turning by hand does not mean the same thing in every design. With the washer unplugged, a new stop or noticeable rubbing means you should stop and check the design before forcing it.
Do not confuse a locked drum with a locked door
A door that will not open is an access problem; here, what matters is the drum’s mechanical movement once it is normally accessible. Some brakes and drives prevent free rotation, especially in top-loading designs. Do not try to free them with the control panel or by bypassing a safety lock.
What to observe without forcing it
- Whether the resistance appeared suddenly or gradually increased.
- Whether there is localized rubbing, uneven spacing, or a visible part out of position.
- Whether an item from the load is missing or you heard a knock before it stopped.
- Whether the drum seems lower than the opening or rubs against the seal.
A foreign object between the drum and tub is a possibility; a support issue, deformation, or bearings may also be involved. These observations help guide the inspection, but they do not identify every type of damage on their own.
Do not insert rods through the holes or try to turn it with levers. You could push the object against the heater or damage surfaces that later need to seal properly. Removing panels or opening the tub requires the proper procedure and expertise.
When structural inspection is needed
If there is noticeable off-center positioning or excessive play, the drum shaft and support should also be evaluated. A repair in that area cannot be confirmed from a photo or a single sound.
Take the machine out of service if the blockage is not due to a documented brake; do not run a spin cycle to see whether it frees up.