Spun rod bearing. Dilema

[miander]

I am machinist which allows me some alternatives with my situation. I have less then $200 in the bike and it is 2004 model. With the exception of a dented gas tank, two tires that need replaced, and a few light scratches the bike is complete. I need to fix the motor. It needs a crank and rod. That is it. I would hate to have to part the bike over that but buying a new crank is out of question and buying another engine leaves me in the situation that I am at the mercy of the previous owner which bother me.

So I am currently in search of a crank.

I also have another idea and have went this route before with good results. It is a last resort but when executed properly will work and last like OEM.

I can have the rod journal welded with a light layer and then have the crank machined to proper specs. Ultimately it would be cheaper then buyig a new crank and about the same cost of buying a used one.

Has anyone done this before?

Also does anyone know if an older model GS500 crank will work in the 04 and up?

Thanks