SECOND THOUGHTS: Just watched the iFixit video on Youtube. Maybe it isn't as bad as I thought. Got to go order some adhesive remover though. Wish me luck.

Had display issues due to intermittent display connector in a never opened iPad. Thought I would replace the battery while I was in there, so I ordered one when I ordered the adhesive strips. I've been working on electronics since I was 12 years old and I am 70 now, so 58 years. When I looked up this excellent guide I concluded that the risk/reward ratio of replacing a worn but functional battery on this old iPad just is not in my favor. I'll let Apple win for now. If the battery fails, then I'll go back in, but this is Apple's obstructive engineering at its best.

Good advice. I am facing a similar issue. I saw this suggestion 24 hours too late.