I have taken the front panels off and then turned the machine on. Almost immediately drops came off the plastic part of the water pump behind the motor. Is there an easy fix? or do I need to contact a repairman?
Here are the parts
Replacement parts for WHIRLPOOL DU810CWDQ5 UNDERCOUNTER DISHWASHER | AppliancePartsPros.com
Here is a manual
Whirlpool KD-10 1998 Dishwashers, Servicing and Troubleshooting Service Manual - ApplianceDigest.com
You have to join the site to download the manual but it is free and this is a very good site for manuals and other info for the appliance repair DIYer.
First I would try to locate the exact leakage point.
Since water runs down often the leak will be higher up in the unit than where the drip is.
A small mirror and a flashlight are helpful when doing this.
Sounds like it could be the seals between the motor and the pump in which case you will need a new motor/pump assembly.
At around $140.00 it may not be worth investing that much into this unit unless it is in excellent shape.
I cannot say if you need a repairman. It all depends on your mechanical ability. Also if ypou get a repairman it it will add at least $50.00 to $100.00 or more to the cost.