Cracked crankcase loop

Hi.

I´m currently restoring the engine on my 71 roadster. When a took the crankcase apart I discovered that the loop on the left-hand side was cracked. It's the loop where the camshaft is running through (see pictures below).

So, my question is: can it be repaired by cleaning it up and welding it or is there a better way of dealing with this problem?

Just for curiosity, what is the purpose of this loop?

thanks in advance

I would GUESS that it is to deflect oil splash from the cams cross drilled holes, reducing liquid in the timed breather.

If you’ve changed (upgraded) your breather, I’d score it with a file, snap off the rest of it to prevent FOD should it come loose.

Yes, it COULD be welded, but it’s not needed.

JMWO

I would scrub and clean up everything up very very well, then inspect closely. Are these more cracks? Why is it busted, you gotta ask. If everything looks OK after a close inspection ,you should be OK.

That loop is not there on later engines. Welding it would reduce the strength around the barrel stud so just cut it off.
Then v -out the cracks in the outer case [if they are cracks?] and tig it up. Actual cracks would be unusual at those points. Jim