4 Speed Pedal Rebuild Went South - Help!

So, my clutch pedal had broken off of the weld on the top. I took it all apart, got new bushings, rod, bearings, etc, and welded the pedal to the new rod.
Put it all back together and it was smooth as silk.
About 15 minutes later- the weld tore on one side from the over spring.
Now the over spring and the rear tab that the spring hooks on to rubs against the mount; the pedal won't come back up all the way, its tough to push, noisy, etc.

Second time I actually welded something, and it penetrated well and I had a nice bead going around. When the factory weld broke it took some material from the pedal so I filed it down and went around again- started looking like balls of metal so I stopped. I can't weld it from the other side because it has to sit flush against the bearing sleeve.
OK now you can laugh at my welding skills, I know it looks bad, but without going too crazy, I tried to make sure it would hold before I put it back in, stuck it in the vise and it wouldn't budge.

The spring came out with 7 washers only put in about a half inch- getting it back in was ridiculous.

What can I do to make this weld withstand the over spring?

Is there a better design than a welded on piece?
I got these parts from Brewers.

What is the best way to get the spring back in?
I filled it with washers to put it back, and it took hours.
Can I use a smaller spring?
It needs one or the pedal stays down.

I'm spent, and apparently a welding idiot.