The 8 1/4 thread

Ok, so I scanned this and did not see this. Correct me if I'm wrong. This thread is talking about the carriers basically, not the entire housing? Reason I ask is I recently saw a 98 Cherokee 8.25 rear end with 3.55s for sale not too far away. Drum brakes. Seeing if it would just require perch relocation or if it had to be shortened too.

From research A-body 8 1/4 width (flange to flange) is about 51.4 inches or so. I think 8 3/4 was the same.
XJ Cherokee axles are slightly wider by around 3 inches or so.
And yes you will need to weld perches on.
Some more info to help a little Jeep Cherokee Rear 8.25