I’m not after “cheap” (at least for the cap.) I’m after learning about these devices (esp. the caps — poly film plus oil is new to me) & also improving the reliability! My experience & research (practical and online) with the failures (overall) says a new pump may fail sooner, anyway.
Wifey started off as an engineer, so, she somewhat understands the mindset. Plus, the basement is to my shop, so, no impact on her. Except me griping at whoever spec’d the crappy Chinese capacitor. (Not all Chinese parts are poor - I just think in this case the mfgr skimped on this.)
I am of the same ilk, Brother!! It is a fascinating challenge to fix things—not like it is now where the entire board or unit is simply replaced. Whenever I can, I teach that is important for our kids to enjoy the fascination in how things work, understand, take them apart, and then make them work again. Nothing more rewarding and confidence building.