Would a "3-in-1" kit (SUPCO seems common) help, or should I be budgeting for a replacement refrigerator?
Maytag PTB1953GRW takes several attempts to start the compressor - 10sec buzz; 2min pause; 10sec buzz; 2min pause; ... up to four times until it starts - which it has so far. Condenser coils were not particularly dirty, but I cleaned them anyway to no effect; condenser fan runs fine and can be heard running while the startups are attempted.
Edit:
I did install one of the SUPCO units and the refrigerator seems to start reliably now. Time only will really tell. It may be running short of charge, though - I see corrosion around the brazed joints of the tubing - so I'm setting my pennies aside.
Many thanks for the support and comments.