leaking water, sussed that a split in drum just above element hole, how can?

Providing split is not at a point which is LOAD bearing how about a fibreglass repair. Get a kit from a motor factors,( isopon ) if outer washer drum plastic and shiny scratch to provide a better key for the fibreglass wait say 12 hrs to dry/cure before trying machine.
A certain TV programme(three letters) sells a type of paste you paint on to cure leaks or big holes(still rely's on the fibre glass matting to seal the big holes.)

wirecutterman
January 2008