Ok, so I've been doing a ton of reading and learning. I want to keep my jeep mostly as a DD. But at the same time, I'm going to do a 3-4" lift and planning on keeping the stock size 15x7 rims with 31x10.50x15s. What I want to do, is make the rig totally bomb proof for this tire size. I dont ever want it to break !!! So here's what I'm thinking ,,, upgrade the pinion yoke to HD with the U-bolts, ditch the straps. Replace all of the seals and bearings, totally rebuild the differential. Getting ready to upgrade to rear disc brakes. Want to go with alloy axles. Can't decide between 3.73 or 4.10 yet? Leaning towards the 4.10, new differential cover HD, that I can drain, with a skid plate over that. Last upgrade will be ARB locker. For the time being, keep the 3.55 LS till I switch. Any suggestions on brands?

the 8.25 as is, will not struggle with 31s...really, 31s arent too much bigger then stock.

oh, and you'll need some spacers or adjust your steering stops to run the stock wheels without issue..thy will rub on the control arms at full lock and they also dont stuff too well.

I had planned on upgrading the control arms. So what size spacers or if bought new wheels backspace, 4.25" , if I adjust the turning stops would I loose much radius ? Trying to figure all this out before I start plunking down cash. I was wanting to get the ACOS up front, modify the bumpstops. Going to try the OEM coils at first. The jeep still rides pretty good and is still tight.

i think the amallest spacers are like 1.25 to 1.5 inch...3.5 inch backspace is the recommended to clear 31s on a 3 inch lift withoit modifying anything or trimming. Your radius qould be affected if you adjusted the steering stops but how much depends.

I was thinking about building up my 8.25 but decided to go with the 8.8 instead. There is a ton more support for the 8.8 and it's stronger. I'll be going to 35s with a la 6.5" lift. I had a Cherokee on 31s with the 8.25 stock and never broke anything at all. I just wish it had lower gearing. 3.55 just didn't cut it.

I was pretty much aware that with 31s the would be ok,,, my front axles looked really rough and rusted badly where they enter the tubes. The plastic collars had been slid back for who knows how long ? I realize that it would be overkill. But would still like to do it. Don't want to switch axles. I'm kinda interested in the low COG approach. If I were to ever want a bigger tire, I'd be prepared. This will probably be my last build. I want all of the bells and whistles. If anything alloy axles up front for sure. Just like to have the rear match.

Why put an ARB in the rear? To me a selectable locker in the rear of a street vehicle doesn't make much sense, it is either open or locked and I don't want either one of those options on the street. You would get more use out of a drop in locker like a Lockright, Spartan, or Aussie, or a Detroit if you wan't the strength of a full case locker but with only 31s you really don't need it. I am locked front and rear with Spartan lockers, 31s and stock axles and I have never broken anything.

8.25 w/ a Aussie locker and Yukon's 4.88's. The Aussie locker works good on the street, I like it. Good part.




Nifty G2 Torque differential cover for 8.25, this part is great too! Very high quality, the magnetic drain and fill plugs are excellent insurance. I've read a lot of people wondering about what to torque the load bolts too and easiest answer is "1/2 to 2/3's of the cover bolt torque".

I would have to agree the 8.25 isn't as strong as the 8.8 due to ring gear diameter. But there is definitely plenty of aftermarket support for the 8.25. It's also very easy to set up gears on because of the side adjusters.

I'm scratchin' my head in regards to the comment about "lack of aftermarket support" for the 8.25.

What else does one want?

I'm thinking about running 37's on mine, it'll hold a 30 or 31 all day long bone stock.

I had considered just leaving the LS in the rear and only a locker up, which does make more sense. Plus cheaper,,

I was wondering about the Aussie locker. Like the cover too. Can you hear the locker when turning on street ? The idea of no air lines is welcome.

Yeah you can hear it.

Imo you either like that sound or it's like nails on a chalkboard.

An E-locker would be ideal. In that sense though I believe the Ox is the only option, don't quote me on that.

I don't think anyone is getting a Detroit Locker for the 8.25 as of now, it's always backordered.

But yeah, a mechanical locker is a great idea.

Imo, of course

I run 85w140 oil with my Spartan lockers and they are quiet on the street.

I like that sound, nostalgic !!! What weight oil are you running in the Aussie ? Now I'm getting excited !

Interesting question.

According to the instructions that came with the Aussie, they recommend a 85w-140.

"IF", you live in a hot climate.

That being said mine has 80w-90 in it.

So you live on the equator huh?

Bwahahahha 🍻 lol!