Hotpoint VTDOO no reverse timer not moving, starts on button stops by open door or switch to zero

sounds like you may have a timer with the contacts sticking closed at certian intervals. or a bad pcb check visual inspection of PCB look for burns or bulges, on the diodes or capcitors, Ihave in the past taken timers apart and fixed sticking contacts by sanding with emery cloth.

In most appliances I've had apart there is a stick plasic envelope stuck somewhere inside the cabinet or the control panel that contains the wiring diagram.

Replace the timer control is my advise

First thing to check is the door switch. It should read zero ohms when pushed in and infinity (open) when released. These are often bad and very easy and cheap to fix yourself. If it is bad, check out repairclinic.com for the part.

Good luck from Detroit, MI.

The secondary microswitch controlling the door is shorted. Check the microswitch which is located at the door perimeter and have it replaced.

Strange. Heaters usually shut down with the spinning drum when door is open. If you check the schematic for unit you can check to see if in fact this is correct operation. Attached site usually has schematics for appliances. You might want to check. Search Over 2 1 Million Appliance Parts

Change your timer. It has a malfunction in it. it's about a 100 dollar fix. Also your start switch may be bad.

1. Opening the door does not break the cycle

The door switch needs to be replaced

2. the timer does not move

The timer should be replaced

3. Start button

This could be in the start button or at the motor

You need to remove the top cover, remove the right hand side panel,ease the drum forward and fit the new belt.
It is very difficult to fit the new belt without the proper tool avialable from Hotpoint.
It can be done without the tool, but be prepared to stuggle

the dryer wont stop running only when open door will it start a fire?