cracked plate strut

[Tvak@AOL.COM]

This may have been covered in the past on this list, but I would like to 
offer advice to a clergyman who just obtained a Schaaf grand with a crack in 
the plate.  The crack is on the strut which separates the bass from the tenor 
and has not cracked completely through yet.  

Will welding correct this problem?  I don't suppose there is an epoxy strong 
enough?

The piano is in otherwise great condition.

Advice, anyone?

Tom Sivak