Ford 8.8-inch
An Explorer 8.8-inch is a popular swap for TJ Wranglers because it's almost exactly the same width as the stock Wrangler axles and thus requires no width modifications. Further, Alan at Mountain Off Road Enterprises says that the Explorers used the same wheel bolt pattern as a TJ. Other vehicles that used the 8.8-inch axle included Ford ½-ton trucks from '80 to present, and Mustang GTs.
Application: Rear.
Type: Semi-floating.
Spline count: 28, 31.
Factory ratios: 2.47:1 through 4.10:1.
Maximum tire size for stock axle: 37-inch.
Strong point: Approximately the same pinion diameter as a Dana 60, mass availability.
Weak point: C-clips.
Junkyard jewel: Look for fullsize Ford trucks made after late '86 with ABS because these axles had a larger 7/8-inch-diameter cross pin. Also look for late-model Explorers equipped with these axles because they have disc brakes.
Building secrets: The stock diff cover is very thin, so replace it with a quality aftermarket cover. Also, apply silicone to the pinion splines because some builders have found that they're prone to leaking.
Aftermarket alternatives: Currie Industries, Custom Differentials, DTS Custom Service, Mountain Off Road Enterprises.
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