Am I in Trouble? Rear Axle Crack

[alskyline]

This is my first post on this forum and I just want to say that this forum is the best thing for someone wanting to work on this series of trucks.

Here is my problem, when I purchased my project 1972 Chevy short bed it came with a 2:42 rear end that I believe came off of a camaro. I went to the junkyard and purchased a 3:73 rear-end from a 1972 longbed and installed it. When I had it cleaned up and installed I noticed a crack on the axle. I have added some pictures so that you all can see it. I have done a lot of work on this truck going down to the frame and building it completely back to the point that the engine is ready to start this weekend. Is this crack fixable by welding it and making it strong again or is it going to keep cracking and/or leak really bad. I haven't noticed it leaking at all.

I need your Opinions, Thanks!

[kelsfine69]

I wouldnt worry about it but for piece of mind I would "V" the crack and run a small bead to fix it

[Ram-Man]

Welcome!! I really wouldn't worry about that. If you want it sure looks like it would be an easy fix by welding it.

[kelsfine69]

When a diff is made at the factory the axle tubes are pressed in and the holes in the carrier housing is filled with a welder to make it one piece.

[alskyline]

Oh Good! I have had that little stress in the back of my mind for weeks now. Thanks!

[WorkinLonghorn]

Just a side note,while we're on the subject (Oh,welcome from so.cali).I had to have my last diff./axle tube welded there because the RV cam'd motor with a granny 1st would twist the joint there throwing off the pinion angle resulting in broken u-joints. I don't know if that is a common occurrence though.Just thought I'd mention it.

[alskyline]

More Problems! I appreciate the replies from before. I just moved the truck and noticed that the rear axle is leaking gear oil from just below that crack, in other words it appears that the crack has caused that part of the axel to expand a hair and so oil is dripping out. (2 to 4 Drops after being moved but then stops again.) Does this change the problem or is it still fixable with welding or other means? What are your opinions?

[cableguy0]

the center section is cast iron and CANNOT be welded with a standard welder. you need either the proper rod for a stick welder and a large oven to heat the center section to weld it or you use a spray welder which is very expensive and there arent many around. eventually that crack will carry through the center section and cause problems. i would look for another rear if it was me. its a ton easier than trying to repair that in a high stress area

[alskyline]

That is what my gut is telling me. I found this rear-end at a junkyard, is that the best place to get one or can I buy one somewhere else that might be better? I had a hard time finding this one and I can't find any ads in the magazines either that sell rear ends, especially with rear leaf springs.
Thanks for your help!

[lost wages]

keep an eye on the for sale section here, or post a wanted ad here, youll find one fast.

[Bishops Trucks]

You have to ask yourself what made that crack, and have you looked inside the housing?