Making The Weak 7-1/4 Rear Axle Live... Kinda

What gears do you have in the rear? Is this a small bolt pattern rear, or a 5x4.5?
I definitely wouldn't weld the spiders, especially on the street.
If you're not regularly hot doggin' it, it could last you a surprisingly long time- especially if it's a later large pattern unit.
5x4.5 with 2.76:1 ratio.