I have a vita spa hot tub from 2000. I find that the smaller(daily) pump that is used for filter and heating is having a hard time starting once it turns off after reaching temp. I jump started it usung a screwdriver on the cooling fan side and it started right up. It seems to my like a cap. problem but I don't see a cap. on that smaller pump. Could it just be clogged on the wet side? I know it's getting ppower because you can hear it hum but not start.

I have found a coupla ways to bump start the motor. I can remove filter element and with the flat of my open palm push rapidly into the filter inlet or I can take my hand held spa vac and with the round accessory fitting place it over the inlet and pump it several times. In addition to going straight to the pump and with a long thin bladed screwdriver insert into pump housing and start the cooling fan spinning.
Any ideas on what could be wrong? Thanks

just a bad pump