Jacuzzi CE60 Model K Pump Shaft Leak - Replace?

Hello all.

I have a four year old Jacuzzi CE60 "Splash Pak" 1HP Cartridge Pump/Filter system. When opening up the pool yesterday (24' above ground), I discovered that the shaft on the pump motor was stuck from corrosion. Instead of rotating, the motor/pump hummed and then turned off after about 30 seconds (thermal protection kicked in, I assume...). Rotating the shaft a couple of times with a pair of pliers fixed the problem.

However, now that the pump is working, I'm noticing that the shaft is leaking (like a slow, leaky faucet) where the motor joins the bracket splash. I suspect it's the mechanical seal.

Keeping in mind, though, that the motor is 4 years old, the company has been sold (twice), and replacement parts are difficult to come by, I'm considering simply replacing the pump with another 1HP pump (probably Hayward). Will another manufacturer's pump be compatible with my CE60 filter? As an FYI, the union between the existing pump and filter are horizontal.

In the meantime, can I simply just "live with" the leak as is, at least while the pump is still functioning?

All advice is appreciated!! :-)

I have the Jacuzzi DE filter with 2 speed motor. Mine was about 4 years old and had a leaking seal. It is a $10.00 ceramic faced bearing seal. Took about 45 minuetes to replace. Cheap part and easy fix. Go for it.

If you feel comfortable digging into it, follow redhots advice (and welcome to the forum redhot). For $10 what do you have to lose by trying? As for compatability of a new pump, you may have to do some replumbing but with PVC you can mate anything to almost anything. If you decide to do that check here first for sizing recommendations.
Al