1998 Accord DX 4 cylinder

So I ripped my CV joint boot installing a new axle and everyone tells me that I have to replace it (the boot). The tear is only a half an inch and I figure I could heat up something metal and then melt the tear closed? Sound feasible?

I also broke half of my ABS sensor. It was the half that bolts to the knuckle. The sensor is actually still fine and intact, but my ABS light is on so I am thinking that that bolt also served as the ground. So I am going to cut the ground wire leading to the sensor, stripe a small section, and then just ground that to the bolt. Think it will work?

Just wanted your opinions and I am trying both methods tomorrow and will post some pics if it is successful.
Thanks,
Tom