I just think they need more repair NPC's and have them be able to repair all types of gear. Would also be a nice bonus if they repaired to 100%.

Like the OP I'm not big on crafting and I like working and playing with others but I don't want to have the rely on someone else so I can play the game.

This also has little to do with dying. My gear is breaking way to quickly when just killing things out solo and doing solo leves.