Hello,
I think before I look into the thermal fuse I would check for a faulty door switch since you said the light was not working inside. This is assuming you have tried a new bulb of course. There is something wrong with the switch area for sure and a bad door switch would give you a dead dryer situation. I believe you can remove the front panel by loosening the screws on the bottom or the panel and lifting up.
JP
February 2008