Candy Aquaviva 1300 washing machine

Candy Aquaviva 1300: As the drum speeds up there are intermittent noises as though some thing is catching quite badly. I had to switch it off it was so bad. I'm wondering if some thing has got inbetween the drum and it's outer casing? Iv'e got the back off and removed the bottom hose to see if I can feel anything. Nothing. With the belt removed the drum revolves smoothly with no roughness felt in the bearings. However, when I lift the drum by its lip at the door there is a small amount of play. Could this be enough to make the inner drum foul the outer case? How big a job is it to remove the drum to remove anything that has perhaps got inside or to fit new bearings if required? Are any special tools required? I'm retired now but was a car mechanic for many years. I've searched the Web looking for a repair manual for this machine, but haven't nad any luck. Hoping you can help.