We have had our thin twin for about 4 years with no real problems. A week ago it started making a high pitched speak sound when on spin cycle. Yesterday I noticed a small stream of water running out the bottom of the washer.
I took the front panel off today to look for a source for the leak and found a film of oil coating the gear box with a few fresh drips hanging off the lower parts. I've never serviced a washer, but I'm very handy (do all my own auto repairs and I'm a certified PC hardware repair technician for Apple, IBM and Dell) so I think I can do this work myself...
I'm guessing that I need to order a new gear case/transmission (P/N AP3096209 ).
Can anyone offer tips/guidance if this is the right approach?

One more thing, directly above the gear case is what looks like the clutch assembly that attaches to the bottom of the drum (can't find this part in the schematics on the site). There is a rubber band or belt or gasket around this round part that is just sitting there. Looks like it supposed to be a gasket between 2 parts or something, but its just loosely wrapped around and I can move it with my fingers. Its about .5 inches across, square sides and little curved sections every few inches. Any idea what this is or where it should be?

Please see attached pictures of these item, and thanks for any advice that you may be able to offer.

Did that also resolve the high pitch sound during the spin cycle?