What axle to swap in?

[jpnjim]

An XJ 8.25" would be more than fine, with stock tires.
They've held up pretty well in 1/2 ton full size trucks for 20+ years.

8.8's are a good option, but slightly narrower, and MJ's rears are already slightly narrow for the body (compared to the front).

There's plenty of full size Ford cars with automotive 9" Fords ~60" wide, with 5 on 4.5" bolt circle.

Tons of Chryslers from the 60's/70's used Chrysler 8.75" drop out center axles. They're a great heavy duty upgrade, and easy to change gearing later.
They also use the same backing plate patturn as 1990+ Jeeps (= cheap ZJ rear discs)

66-70 B-body's (Charger, Cornet, Belvedere, etc) are slightly narrower than stock (~59.5")
71+ B-body's (Charger, Satilite, etc) & 70+ E-body's (Challenger, Cuda) = slightly wider than stock (~61").

There's plenty other axle choices out there too.

Other than width, the 8.8" is still a good option, since they're so easy to find.

 

[summitlt]

If you could find a pre 1985 vihicle in a yard, id pay you big money. Here in maine they rotted away and were crushed many many years ago.

 

[T&A-XJ]

My vote goes to the 8.8, slightly narrower yes but tighter turning radius would be nice for the longer MJ. For $300 with disc brakes you just cant beat it for price. Another thing to consider with wrecking yard axles is how long its been there. A 95+ explorer axle either will have less miles or will have set in the dirt for less time than say a 1987 XJ D44 axle would. Lower gear ratios seem easier to find as well, 3.73s or 4.10s would be ideal for 30s or 31s if thats what you plan on.

 

[NRT_Chris]

I have a 8.8 31 spline lsd disc i need to get rid of anybody want it ? make me a fair offer