[Eliot Ness]

With a cracked Bakelite case it is perfectly acceptable to glue the cracks and then to repaint. 

When gluing Bakelite I like to use super glue, and after it dries reinforce the cracked areas on the inside of the case with fiberglass mat and resin or a strong two-part epoxy.  You can then use filler as needed, prime, and paint.  If you do a search you'll find many techniques. 

Then if desired you can make a replacement back or order one from retro-tronics:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Reproduction-Rad...33475714c6

If your dial is cracked those show up on eBay too:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/VINTAGE-ANTIQUE-...1c4e98a33a


It just depends on how much time and $$$ you want to invest.  The cheaper alternative is to do like you already did and buy a donor radio with a good lens and a back.

Welcome and good luck!