Saginaw manual box mount ideas

I dunno, I think it's pretty bad...there were only two bolts attaching the box to the frame (one 7/16" and one 1/2") and the welds are, ahem, let's just say substandard.

Somehow I don't think I would get what I would consider an acceptable amount of accuracy grinding flats on the end of the column. Again, does anyone know the OD of of the column's shaft? Also, the column has a "pin and block" U-joint on it that's worn out, and while I can find a replacement most of the steering sites say they're "race-only." However, I'm concerned using a needle bearing joint because it will be located less than an inch from the exhaust manifold and I think the heat would cook the grease out of the joint. What do you guys typically use at the bottom of the column and how to you recommend affixing a joint: weld, pin, or machine for a "D"? If pin or bolting, what size?

Thanks.