Short answer on measuring caps with a DVM is:

If the reading is *NO MORE THAN* 20% higher than the label capacitance it is probably OK.

Lower by more than 10%, it is probably bad.

Problem is that with a VOM with, at best, a 9V battery in it cannot really test a line-voltage cap properly. And leaky caps may give a falsely high reading. So, a 60% over-label reading suggests (not guarantees) it is probably bad.

An ESR meter is better.

And testing a cap at full voltage is best of all.

Bridging in more capacitance is a mixed bag. Does no good if the cap is leaky. Does good if the cap is open.

Peter Wieck
Melrose Park, PA