so i ordered the new m14-1.5 tap from time-sert (it's not really a m14-1.5 tap, it's an over size tap that cuts threads for the insert. the interior threads on the insert are m14-1.5) and cooled my heels waiting for it to show up. while i waited, i noticed that the welder did not weld all the area inside the stripped out nut, so there were gaps in the new threads towards the inside of the nut. these gaps persisted after i drilled out the hole for the insert. after scratching my head for a bit, i busted out the jb weld and gooped up the gaps. i did this a couple of times, let it harden for 24 hours, and then re-drilled the hole. the new tap arrived, and i carefully (carefully!) tapped the oversize hole and installed the insert. i made sure i had new bolts, installed the a-arm, torqued up the bolts.....
and it held. so, is it fixed? dunno. i'm going to finish the rest of the repairs i started and then go bash that wheel against the curb leading up to my driveway several times. if it is still holding after i abuse it a bit, i'll have the front end aligned and we'll see what happens. it might last 20 minutes, and it might last 20 years.
if it doesn't last, i have another idea. i'll remove the current m14 insert and get an m16-1.5 time-sert kit and install the insert. then i'll get a machinist to take a m16-1.5 bolt and turn a section down to m14-1.5 and install my custom stud using thread locking compound in the frame.
perseverance uber alles!