AMC Gremlin

[fury fan]

DON'T weld it. It will alter the metallugy to an unknown extent.
For those 2 bolts - use Grade 8 bolts/nuts and hardened washers to get the most capacity.

Bolts in tension are stronger than bolts in shear (for same components). But bolts in a case like this would ordinarily be put in double-shear, which then exceeds the tensile strength.
But that's all immaterial with this hitch-ball.

 

[Just Carbs]

I'm thinking weld the block, then bolt ball with 1/2 course thread 25,000 lbs tensile load bolts.
Besides, it's going to bend that down bar before anything else happens.

 

[My three 67 Polaras]

Good thing you are rebuilding the front end. When a tie rod breaks in these, it creates a very specific crease in the front of the fender, radiating out from the wheel well as the front tire hits it from going out of bounds.

 

[Unix]

At the paint shop. Lots of body panels needing alignment, and further finishing off before paint. It was a different metal man performing the work than on my Newport, and the job is not done very well in some areas. Fortunately the paint guy worked at a body shop, and will fix these areas before paint prepping and then paint. For example look at the doors and front fender.. ;) front valance also far from good

 

[Unix]

Getting there.