That is somewhat true depending on how you welded it. It really needs to be either brazed or tig welded with a bronze type filler rod. I have seen tack welds made with a Mig crack.
Also, the pickup should not just "slide" into the pump. It is a pretty tight press fit and if done properly should stay in place by itself in most applications. BUT ... it is very hard to get it aligned properly and pressed in like the factory does, even with the Melling tools.
