crack in gearcase housing

[offshore99]

I have a 1996 Suzuki DT140. It has developed a small crack in the gearcase housing on the left side ( facing motor from behind) right where the prop/ housing seperation is. It's about 2 inches long. Can this be welded or do I need to replace the housing?
The oil was just changed this past spring in the lower unit and the motor runs fine.