Yep Adam, it was a gamble. I knew if they were cheap castings that they would fall apart as soon as the arc was struck. My welding guy said he would try it anyway and see what happens. The way they flowed together gave some confidence that they will be strong enough.
Most of the guys that make the lowered bus spindles also weld reinforcements around the crown to give them strength, same material as the arms so I had a good idea it would work.
I wouldn't dare repair a broken arm this way but if you look at the pics, my new mount rests on part of the old shock boss, supports some of the load so it's not entirely dependant on the weld.
Started on new upper mounts this week...AND finally got the ok to buy my OWN mig
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Jeff-