It sounds like the seal is going out. Take the tub out and on the bottom of it you will see a rubber seal. Replace that and check the shaft to make sure there is no sharp burr to tear the new one. If that does not fix it the metal part that the seal is in needs to be replace so the shaft and tub stays inline

I have to butt in......Robert, how could you answer so irresponsibly? It was never even mentioned that this was a top-load washer (no such seal in a front loader).
Also there are dozens of smaller things that should be checked before such a major repair. Sorry to rant but this just irked me.

it is a top load washer. it doesn;t leak with every wash.

Can you be more specific? What brand, where on the floor is the water (left front corner, ect.)?

it is a Ge hot point. When you a facing the washer it is coming from the right front.

The pump is in the right front on the newer GEs but that is usaully an all or nothing leak. If it a newer washer, the front panel comes off (2 clips under top panel about 2 inches in from the sides, pop them straight in with a putty knife to release), you may very well have to observe a few cycles to find the leak. Soapy water means it's coming from the tub, tub to pump or pump to drain. Clear water is usually fill hose, mixing valve, ect.

** it is a Ge hot point. **

GE washer designs of late have been noted for attempting to spin while in agitation. This causes water to overflow the tub and end up on the floor. You might be able to see if such is happening by opening the lid during the wash. BTW. It is normal to the wash tub to index (move an inch or two at a time) but not to do any full, uninterrupted rotations.

If this is the cause in your case, the transmission will either need to be serviced or replaced. If that is not the cause, opening the machine and looking for the point of origin will likely be necessary. A leak on a washer or dishwasher will often leave a trail of soap scum along it's path from the highest point.

JMO

Dan O.
www.Appliance411.com
The Appliance Information Site

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[This message has been edited by DanO (edited February 12, 2004).]

Thanks, This washing machine is 12 years old. I just thought it might be something minor. Maybe it would be cheaper to buy a new one.

12 years old, that is a different story (Shows the importance of giving good info in the initial post). Now I am thinking outer tub gasket, the outer tub is rigid (not on suspension) on this machine and the top comes down onto a gasket on the outer tub the form a seal.