Leaf spring Shackel is cracked, weld or replace?

[OilPatch197]

A long time ago I hit a curb going 45mph, took a chunk out of my front wheel rim, cracked the front wheel bearing(and fell apart a few weeks later) and slashed the front tire.

I had the bed off and noticed that the rear passenger side shackle has a crack about 1/4 of the width of the piece.


Can I remove it and weld it up? Or am I better to scrounge for a replacement?

 

[engdept]

Either will work. If you want to replace it, I have a good pair I will sell ya for $20+ shipping.