Closely inspect the entire wiring loom and circuit boards, looking particularily closely at areas where the wiring touches the machine frame. Your'e looking for any signs of wear or fraying which would allow the bare wire to contact the frame. Could be an internal short circuit in the heater or motor. disconnect various components in turn before powering up. When you come to the point where the power breaker doesnt trip out you have the faulty component.
Repair and service your own washing machine. Go to www.2ndwave.co.uk/manual.html
dannyboy, November 2008
Your machine is throwing a circuit breaker because it has an electrical fault - a 3 second delay suggests that it may be the water inlet solenoid - a coil/magnet that opens the valve to let water into the machine.
