Frame manufacturers will void a warantee if you weld to, cut or drill the flange of the frame. This is because the flange provides the bulk of the strength of the frame. Heat from welding can destroy the temper and cause fishers/fractures which will destroy the integrity of the frame. Cutting and drilling not only removes metal but also introduces excessive heat.
The welded seam on the stretch is different in that you have 2 butt joints being welded together and then re-enforced by doubling the frame in that section.
Welding the vertical portion of the frame is discouraged as well. It can be done but should only be attempted by someone with a great deal of experience. Steel is a good conductor of heat and you can still damage the temper, even in the flanges, when welding to the body of the frame.
I'd suggest following spooners advice and using U-bolts.
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