Alright i have a XJ with 6.5 lift and 35s. I am woundering if i should be worried about the 8.25 i have i dont know how strong it is and dont want to find out the hard way out on the trail one day. Its going to be doing some harsh trails but its still going to be a daily driver

 

what year?

 

1993

 

you should be worried about both axles

the 8.25 is a 27 spline version and rather weak

the dana30 up front has the smaller u joints which are known to bust rather easily.

for the 8.25, i would assume you are locking this axle seeing that its going to be doing some "harsh" trails. if you get a 29 spline locker you can upgrade to 29 spline shafts. (not sure if you need new axle seals or bearings though)
chromo shafts for these are relatively cheap as well.

for the dana30 I would at the very least look into some 95+ front shafts and u joints.

 

you might want to think about either regearing and getting the 29 spline axles or getting a d44 or ford 8.8 out back

 

You would have to replace the carrier in order to change over to 29 spline shafts not just the spider gears or locker. If you are gong to go through that much effort, just look for a comlpete 29 spline 8.25 to swap in. You could also do the Ford 8.8 swap, but always keep your eyes open for a Dana 44.

 

whats the easiest to swap in i would like something that doesnt require a large amount of fab work.

 

i would say the 29 spline 8.25 would be my suggestion. i just had mine apart over the weekend to put a aussie locker in it and the axle shafts look very thick to me. i have been beating on mine pretty bad with a set of 34" tsl swampers and it hasnt given me any problems so far.