Do I need to gut the axle housing when the perches are welded?
Good question. I'll bet that most of them are welded on with everything still installed, but the axle seal is relatively nearby, and it's a good bit of welding. Hopefully the others will relate their experiences.
But in either event, I would say that stitch welding (probably not the correct term?) is the way to go. Just don't weld the entire thing all at the same time. Let the tube cool down between welds.
Then again, I'm not a welder and that tube is pretty thick! Interested to hear what the welders in the groups say.
These larger perches help with axle wrap but should I still consider one of the anti-wrap devises?
What's your intended use? What tire size and gear ratios are you planning? The stock springs wrap like big dogs, and lift springs probably even more. The perches reduce, but cannot eliminate this. But do you need an anti-wrap device? Well, all Broncos can benefit from them. But are they strictly necessary? Ask any one of the thousands of people running modified and stock Broncos around for the last almost 60 years without them, and see what they say.
In other words, you don't need it. But should you consider it? Sure, why not!
But again, depends on how you're going to set up your Bronco and how you're going to use it. I guess I should re-read the thread in case you've already gone over that.
Im also considering an axle truss while I have everything apart. Nothing crazy since its not a rock rig but something like this that won't extend the back of the housing into the tank.
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/...M2Ne12Wes-jQFzWA72sLdmtq3ETkC06nm1288sAbEl1CQ
Should I gut the housing to install this?
Again, good question. I'd say yes, but since the welding is not done near the axle seals, but could still effect the pinion area, I'd say if you're careful and don't weld it all at one time, you could get away with it. But the "not at one time" thing might be good not just for the internals, but also the relative straightness of the tubes with all that heat.
Again, waiting for the experts...
But make sure it's sized correctly for your housing before you buy. Notice that it's for an aftermarket HD gusseted housing. Is that what you're running?
I don't remember if you discussed what type of rear end you have. But if it's a stock pre-'77 9" housing, that truss might need some extra massaging to fit.
Paul
As long as you followed all of the instructions, air checked the pistons, and your clutch pack clearances checked out, you should be good to go.
