[Scott Smith]

Checked power,air flow,thermostat,thermal limiter,and thermister control. They all seemed to check out ok. With the top off and dryer running I saw flashes coming from the general area of the heating element. I haven't checked it for continuity because of the it's location. A little tough to get to without taking the whole thing apart. I'm thinking the heating element is probably bad.Could someone confirm this thought or give me another possible cause.Any and all help is appreciated.

[denman]

Since you saw flashes odds are pretty high it is a bad heater or a bad wire, in either case you will have to open her up and take a look.

You might as well check all moving parts, belt and felts seals etc. for wear and replace as necessary.
Also give the interior a good cleaning.
I would also clean and check the vent system.