[Richard]

This is my theory. Worth exactly nothing. Newell270 keeps referencing a 30 to 50 amp cord as big suspicion in this whole series of events. I am wondering if it was a homemade adaptor? Anyway, IF and IF the neutral was open on that adaptor cord, then the neutral is going to follow the ground to complete the circuit. If I recall the ground and neutral are bonded. That could explain why the hose became hot. The washing machine ground now became the neutral path. I am sure the electrical engineers on here will let me know what is wrong with my idea.

This would have also driven the transfer switch crazy, since there was a compromised neutral to close the circuit on the coils.

I have always suspected the replacement of the coils had some miswiring or touching wires. It's tight, and there is a lot of stuff in a small space. No fihger pointing, just saying the blown fuse showed up just after the contactors were replaced.

All of this is worth nothing. I agree with Newell270. Pay the money to get a competent electrician to sort this out. There is enough weirdness to concern me about electrocution possibilities.

And if Newell270 can attend a Newellguru rally, there are plenty that are willing to teach you how to use a Voltmeter and some basic electrical concepts. It is almost a must for long term ownership of one these machines.