A Smart pump is the way, but it seems the pump would have been better on the cool return and with adequate flow, which it appears it was not getting. I have seen pumps that are well installed last 20 years and more. Also cycling does not help at all. Pumps running as cool possible, no cycling and without stress just last. The boiler pumps on heat bank when on the return do not cycle, when anti-cycle stats are installed, and just last.
They do talk about how they are connected.
They are simple and highly effective.