That could be an issue if they are leaking.
Could explain your flooding issue as well
as your running issue.
Try lapping them with something not too
aggressive like toothpaste and see if you can
get a seal all the way around. Then see if you
can get it to run. In any case you should
(I would) be looking for another mixer.
Tubs.
A "Boathouse Repair" is one thats done without having tools or the skills to do it properly.