So I'm thinking about getting a ford 8.8 to replace my 35. I was wondering if when all u guys did the swap if you had to get a custom drive-shaft or did your stock one work?

 

the 8.8 is a wee bit longer than a d35, plus adding the flange adapter too. you should be fine.

 

well when you swap it you have to weld on new perches so it will be pointing directly at your tcase (-2*). so it depends. with the SYE and 4.5" lift you should just be able to take the front shaft out of and Aw4/231 and pop it right in back as a perfect fit

 

im running the 8.8 all i did was the flange adapter for my drive shaft and since i had the weld on perches i mocked the same pinion angle as my 35 have not had any issues yet

 

When I had my YJ, I went with "Adams Driveshaft". Honestly? My YJ never felt the same after I swapped the 8.8 in. If I did it again, I might try a super D35. I am sure some will disagree. But, I just couldn't pin-point my issues to the 8.8. I sold it.

 

My stock shaft worked fine for me with the 8.8 swap, just set your pinion and you'll be fine with the new flange on it

 

stock driveshaft worked fine for me. MJ on around 3" of lift

 

Stock shaft, adapter u joint from napa to attach the 8.8 flange to the xj driveshaft

 

http://www.seriousoffroadproducts.co...y-Ford-8.8-Kit

 

Stock drive shaft will work

 

I would still do an SYE...You are going to have to do a proportioning valve swap from a ZJ as well, Shims...I wish it were as easy as it seems but its fairly extensive.

 

I didn't have any brake issues from mine. I'm running a stock prop valve, the only braking difference I noticed is completely positive

 

If you are going from drums to discs in the rear they are going to require more fluid to get the right amount of pressure to the calipers....I'd do it for sure it only costs about 30-50 bucks at a JY for the Prop Valve and its easy easy thing to do.
I think without it you'll notice that your fronts will degrade prematurely and your rears will get little to no pressure. Plus emergency braking is way, way safer. I installed mine about 2 weeks ago and the difference to me is nearly night and day...especially the pressure I have to apply to the pedal, it feels more like a car now, as opposed to feeling like I was pressing a brick.
For 30 dollars its worth your life, or maybe not I don't know.