Dont forget the 8.8 as an option... You can get those in 3.73 or 4.10 if you so choose. And in my opinion, they are one of the EASIEST axles to work on as far as set up and what not. Already disc brakes... And they are cheaper than 44s to purchase. Not to mention stronger...and if you are looking for alittle extra height in the rear, it will do that for ya too.
Im mentioning it mainly because Ide much rather upgrade the entire axle for fairly cheap, and have an easy install for the locker than deal with the 8.25. I just dont like those corp axles for some reason. Im pretty sure most of the selectable lockers are available for the 8.8 arent they??? Havent looked, I usually just rebuild/re-stack the posi unit for a LITTLE extra help.
I probably sound like an 8.8 rep lately. Ive installed and set up 3 of them recently, and Ill be using one in my 01 when the time comes.
J.