I've been around alot of trucks in my life. There's alot of log trucks and dump trucks around here that have been stretched or had cracks repaired and were just arc welded and plated. I'm sure they've been worked harder than any pickup, alot more twisting and stress. The welds have held fine and haven't cracked around them. If you v the cracks before welding and then plate them they'll do fine. It's always a good idea to support the frame area while your working on it. Good luck!