So I had the transmission swapped with one with a good center diff and rebuilt gears. After getting it back I was having issues with boost and PCV valve issues and oil with the turbo, so I was taking the manifold and intake off. After the 3rd day getting it back and I noticed a crack at the top of the bell housing.

I was just wondering if anyone knows if this is repairable or should I just look for a new housing cover? The mechanic who did the clutch and swap said that he wasn't too sure how it cracked like that and then asked is the crack just on that one bolt hole?

The only time I've seen housings crack are when the input shaft isn't on right and it's torqued down anyway or if the the starter plate is in wrong but then it wouldn't start or drive. I guess it's possible there was a small hairline crack there I didn't notice and it just got worse?

He suggests just welding it and it should be fine as long as the crack isn't moving when the clutch is being pushed. I'm just wondering if I should try and weld it or if it looks like it needs new housing?

Also picture of the crack is how I found it after the 3rd day getting it back. The other is the same spot on the trans before it was installed.