I read the 'How-To' on flipping the ball, did your friend press it out or just cut and flip the end with the ball? Where did the arms break and could some metal be welded to help avoid breaking? I would guess the press-out route would be stronger and not mess up the metal's strength?
Another thought, are 2wd rear springs similar/same to 4wd? From around the same year; like 79 to 84 or so? There's an 81 2wd at a yard I could get the rear springs from if needed...
Thanks again,
Dan