It can be repaired. Clean the metal. Heat the metal. Weld

 

Also curious as to the longevity of the aftermarket manifolds. Have not heard of any failures looking through the same threads you did, but interested as I am assuming I will have to replace one eventually.
Maybe you can get a repair done, and it will hold for a while. I'd say if its a short term vehicle for you, try it if the cost is low enough. If you want to have the truck for several years, may as well bolt on a new part since you went though the trouble to get it off. Get a new O2 as well, while it is in your hands.
Dirtwarrior is a better welder than I am. I am rubbish at cast welding. Im lucky to make it stick, much less be air tight.

 

i have a new never used magnaflow stainless header with cat on it $300 + shipping

 

Sorry I completely forgot about this post, do you still have the header?

 

thank you
snaptube vidmate