Got the gumption up to try welding for the first time. Needless to say, it wasn't pretty, but the weld has held so far. In an experiment to see if I can get the frame off of the axle with the way the PO had ran the leaf springs, I've decided to try welding two 1" x 1" square tubes together to place between the leaf and the axle. If it doesn't work, at least I got to try welding out smile

If all goes well this weekend, I may actually get the air shocks in place and the leaves put back into place. If I get frustrated, there's always something that needs de-rusting and painting!