We have a Maytag Epic Z front load washing machine

You better not to separate the inner and outer tubs as it's quite a job and takes a lot of effort.
Try to remove the heater on the very bottom of the front half of the outer tub. From outside it looks like an oval metal piece with a terminal on each side, a nut (or screw) in the center and a plug with 2 wires coming to it. UNPLUG THE WASHER as the heater is connected to the hot wire all the time.
Remove the nut (or screw) in the center of the heater and pull the heater out. Now you have a nice opening in the bottom between the tubs. There is a heater bracket, made of a thick wire inside. Make sure not to damage it when trying to remove whatever there is inside. Make sure the heater is aligned in the bracket when assembling it back together.

Good luck.