if you break a c clip axle w/disks , the disks will hold it in ( not for that long), but you risk having the c clip drop into your R/P and getting chewed up .
xj D44, great axle up to 35's parts are cheap and available EVERYWHERE , XJ d44 has huge rear drums compared to the 8 1/4 , its a non c clip semi floater ,its bolt in ,and has lots of aftermarket support
I have a 8 1/4 in my 99 right now thats getting tossed . i have the 44 from my old truck that is completely rebuilt w aussie locker , trussed , diff cover new bearings ect ect .. if i did not have the 44 i would just build the 8 1/4 .
if i was to choose .. 44 all the way . i just am not a fan of the c clip in any way