If I go with a complete 3rd member with a true trac, do I need to worry about setting anything up...for example, backlash or gears howling
I "want" to say No ... as long as you work with a knowledgeable rear end set up source. But the reality is, getting gears are quiet is more of a crap shoot these days, since the manufacturing sources are all over the map.
All the rear ends guys I've worked with tell me that one set this week is great & the set the next week is noisy. Some of that has to do with which plant made them. But even from manufacturing plants know for good quality, the error rate is higher these days.
So my suggestion is, go with the most reputable source you know ... not the cheapest. I would ask several sources which brand they've had the best luck with ... in the specific gear ratio you're planning to run. And if it makes noise, don't attack their skills, realize it is probably the gear source. Unfortunately ... replacing the gear to get a quieter one will be on you.
I ended up getting a strange 3rd member with true trac. I ordered the double lapped ring and pinion ( currently this is what's popular for quiet operation) from Dutchman.
I bought a used Nodular Iron 3rd member with 3.50 Ford gears. Added a 31 spline trutrac, 1350 yolk and new bearings. Hopefully it will be quiet when it is done.
I bought a used Nodular Iron 3rd member with 3.50 Ford gears. Added a 31 spline trutrac, 1350 yolk and new bearings. Hopefully it will be quiet when it is done.