On my 85 pickup 4WD I have a traction bar that bolts to the frame and connects to a braket thats welded to the diff. Does the pidkups need this or can I cut it off and put a guesst their? Thanks

 

If you have stock (push-pull) steering and drive it on the road, then yes you need the torque rod, It helps to prevent brake steer (steering pulls to one side under hard braking) and it also helps the protect the steering "J-arm" and drag link from breaking.

If you have crossover steering, then yes, you can cut it off. The '85 axle is already gusseted on the bottom of the axle, adding another gusset on top won't do a lot to increase strength. A knuckle ball gusset kit is probably a better thing to add, if you are worried about bending the axle:
http://frontrangeoffroadfab.com/nfos...780ae178c2158e