Steve although the 8.8 is advertised as available with a 4:56 I have never seen one. In fact I have never heard of anyone finding one.
When looking at 8.8's one needs to measure the dia at the spring. Of course I'm not looking at one now but the 27 spline has 1/4" dia LESS than the 31 spline. Where the axle comes out of the punkin they are the same dia BOTH taper but the 27 spline tapers quickly after the punkin and the 31 spline doesn't taper until near the spring perch. At which time it tapers LESS than the 27 spline. Once one looks closely at them both he will forever know what is inside without tearing it apart.
Of course if one has time to look and wait one would want to purchase a 31 spline with discs.. Which are on limitd amounts of Rangers and in different areas plentiful on sploders.
No question the 9" is stronger. However most are old and worn. Prolly looking at bunches more dollars.. BUT once installed properly should be the very last time you ever think about a rear end.
Big JIm <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" />