Fixing a Frost Free Hydrant - Do What Others Don't

The first super cold winter weather froze our frost-free hydrant, and I will fix it myself. The valve in at the bottom of the stand pipe has been leaking since we moved in 2 years ago. I added a "Y" to the faucet this summer to attach two hoses. The "Y" has separate shut-off valves, stopping water leaking through the valve. During the last two winters, the leaking water would make long icicles, but the hydrant would be fine after it thawed. With the "Y" in place stopping the water from coming out of the standpipe, it could freeze completely, rupturing it. Repair or replace: I will fix this myself rather than pay a plumber. I chose to dig in the cold, rain, and mud over multiple days if necessary. Though other people would not do this work, I am willing. This is how I invest daily in the value of our homestead.