Yes you can, It looks like we have the same model. I have had the very same problem however, after the initial odd noise it went ok for a while. Then after going to empty it and discovering the washing to still be wet I emptied it and run it but the drum would not turn, so I have taken it apart (not as simple as you would think) but with patience and time and if you have basic to good skill/knowledge of hand tools then it's not a hard job.
I discovered the black dust too in the cover and found the shaft had worn through the rear drum bearing which essentially meant that the squeeking noise you can hear is the shaft rubbing on the back casing of the dryer which over time causes the shaft to wear thin, then it snaps but as it wears thin the tension on the drive belt is reduced and as I discovered it had snapped also. I'm Just in the process of ordering the parts to put it back to it's former glory. useful www sites I have found are www.hotpoint-spares.co.uk and also www.4Hotpoint.co.uk/Spares
Good luck and post back on here how you got on
Burksta76, January 2011
