only to find out exactly how dumb i am. i had an 8.25 in there to begin with. i paid $ 100 complete drum to drum. think i paid too much or will i be able to make my money back?

Probably not unless you can find someone with a need for one.

Yikes. Just a friendly reminder that doing your research and checks pays off.

Your best bet would be to toss it up on craigslist and wait. I'm sure with enough time you could get it back!

If its 29 spline I'm sure you can re-sale it for the same. Lots of people with D35s out there.

Like me! Too bad I'm so far away, I've just started searching for a 29 spline 8.25 and I'm not finding much for less than $200.

Personally (Unless you really need the cash) I would keep it and do any upgrades to the spare one. Easier to do with it already off and not have your XJ down while you do the upgrades. Or keep it for parts.

^^^x2 that.

I've seen a few on sale around SLC for $100, & the JY wants $90 but I'd have to pull it!

yea i planned on building the rear. so i guess ill just take my time, really clean this one up and repaint it and everything. thanks guys, and whats the easy way to find out if its 29 spline or not.

pull the axle shaft or if you pull the diff cover you might be able to count the spline count in the spider gears i just dont know if you can see in there good enough to count them

If the axle came out of a 97 or newer XJ than it's a 29 spline, which is the stronger of the two. If it came out of a 4 cylinder with 4.10 gears, I'd be interested in it, otherwise I'd rather wait to find one with 4.10s and/or locked.