Ford 8.8 strength

[skyhighZJ]

So I bought a 2000 Ford 8.8 out of a explorer and I plan on swapping it in the backof my ZJ (5.2ltr)running 4.88 gears with 35 in MTZ's or the like. The jeep will be used for pretty hard wheeling but not getting its ass spanked on by any means. Should I go with Cro-Mo's or run stock shafts for now and is the factory "e-locker" any good? I guess what i am asking is what should I due to get it trail ready: just gear it and go or do a full upgrade now?? thanks

 

[foreman1063]

Talk to Andy or Chase at ECGS, they specialize in 8.8's and can answer any questions you have. Can supply anything you need at good prices as well.

 

[Caver Dave]

I've got a bud running a stock 8.8 behind a legit 500HP stroker that gets beaten regularly... he's broken everything but the 8.8

 

[BigClay]

I have that exact same setup under my ZJ. I am running chromos and I havn't worried about braking a shaft. I would ditch the factory limited slip for a real locker. I have read many places that the 8.8 carrier is its weak point; however, I ran an Aussie locker in my 8.8 for a long time and never had any problems with it. I did just swap the carrier and Aussie for a full Detroit locker but only have one run on that setup.

If you decide to ditch the factory limited slip, you will need an open carrier to run a lunch box style locker (Aussie, lock rite, etc.). I have my old open carrier I would let go pretty cheap if you decide to go that route.

 

[Chris_M]

I had a 8.8 in my ZJ with a 4.6 stroker, a AX15 trans, and a minispool in the diff with a stock carrier. Broke the aftermarket ring and pinion then a minispool, then broke a lockright, then another. But never broke the stock shafts.

 

[skyhighZJ]

well a detroit with 4.88's it is keeping the stock shafts for now tho.... thanks for the info fella's