No it isn't a direct bolt in as far as the drive shaft. There is an adapter that lets you use the stock Cherokee shaft if your lift isn't to high though, and it isn't that expensive.
To install the 8.8 you will either need to buy a conversion kit that has the spring hangers and u bolts get them welded on, or do it yourself. Also make sure you weld the tubes on at differential. The 8.8 is narrower by about 1.5 inches so you'll need some Spidertrax spacers.

 

how do you tell what gear and spline the axle has

 

what all do i need to get from the explore when i get the axle

 

Try for 97 and newer that should get you 31 splines and disc brakes. There could be a tag on one of the diff bolts that gives the gear ratio, if not turn the wheel and count the number of drive shaft or pinion yolk rotations. ( a little over 4=4.10 a little under 4=3.73. and any time you ever get anything from a JY get everything you can. That would include all the brakes the rotors, calipers, pads, emergency cables, any bolts or nuts that are on the diff. like the shock mounts, etc.

 

ok tahnks

 

does any one have pics of what you need to weld on the ford 8.8 to make it work

 

Just do a Google search for 8.8 to jeep swap kits for sale. I did and got lots of links some with photos.

 

is the wheel spacing the same as the dana35

 

Yes both axles have 5x4.5 bolt pattern

 

do you guys know what else i need to get from the explore cause im getting it from the axle off the explore. what do need to get to make it work in my xj i'm getting a Ford 8.8 LEAF SPRING XJ SWAP KIT and what other parts would you guys recommend on getting thanks for the help