Sharing this in case it helps others, even if only to overcome hesitation. Using a shop vac to excavate was an unplanned but happy innovation. Flex PVC may have some limitations, but I’d rather take my chances there than another elbow fail. Also, super happy the issue was accessible, all things considered. Now, back to getting it up and running again! Was just getting opened when I started the pump and water came pouring up out of the ground. Wishing all my TFP-er friends a fantastic pool season!
