I was the guy in the Cherokee that came along on Snow Flat Rd when you had your breakdown. I am glad you got out. When I didn't hear from you I hoped you had gotten someone to tow it. I did feel bad that I had nothing to help you with other than giving you my number.
Sorry your trip got interrupted in such a bad way.
Yes, the axle tube sheared at the outer weld, medial to the hub. I've acquired a nice, fresh tube as a replacement. I'm mediablasting it, then reinforcing it with some welded-on trusses and then repainting it with Eastwood chassis paint.
I plan to install a Premier Power Welder and alternator before the next trip, just in case. Also adding an axle stand to the list of spares.