Leaking water just behind central drive shaft of Hoover Elite 920 washing m?

Hoover Elite 920 leaking water just behing central dive shaft and leaking into cone metal dish at bottom. Is this a worn gear drive shaft? Machine had been working well but is now starting to miss a beat? Is the water affecting the gears? What to do? Who to help? Cost involved? Or replace the washing machine if too costly?????

Bev
July 2011