broken transaxle case

2010 Craftsman YTS4000 Lawn tractor. model# 917.28725
Okay so the lower front transaxle support bolts broke off in the casing and the bolts cracked the transaxle casing. Because of all the pressure when releasing the clutch, over time I guess. (Really jerky sensitive clutch)
Anyway, I have a cracked transaxle. From what I understand the transaxle is D6800.
My questions are:
1. Should I just forget about it and save for a new lawn tractor
2. Is the D6800 the only option that would fit my mower? I'm asking because, what if I fixed it and the same thing happens again next year? (design flaw)
3. I think I'll have to replace the shift link. Are there any other parts I should get?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/112096947079?lpid=82&chn=ps&ul_noapp=true

have you checked this out?

Potential heliarc repair. Frequently done to salvage auto transmissions in wrecks. But parts must be disassembled and CLEAN, CLEAN. CLEAN. (assumes AL).