Most of the start problems on Virago style engines are caused by reduction of the outgoing rev's of the starter motor.
The slip style construction causes this by natural wear and tear.
Welding the 2 'slip' rings together causes distortion which results in a damaged starter motor and thus replacement.
I have glue'd them together some 6 years ago and have not had any problem since. I have used an anearobic type of glue used for sealing bearings in their housing.