Check that there is no old piece of bread that has stuck in the toaster and turned to charcoal. if there is and it is touching both the element and the bread holding mechanism it will cause a short as carbonised bread conducts electricity. Look carefully - it may be small. Make sure the toaster is unplugged and try turning upside down and shaking and tapping to dislodge. if you use an implement to dislodge be careful not to damage the element - a whole new ball game!
phil
March 2013
Automatic Answer
While you wait for answers, we may have found some information which could help you.
howtomendit.com for free repair help, information and advice.
Try fixfault.com to fix toasters.