Snapped the 30 spline, now considering 8.8. Imput, recommondations?
 

as the title says, I snapped a sierra gear 30 spline axle. I just replaced that same axle because the flange bent (slightly) probably from a V-notch. anyway, thanks to my club members we got the jeep out and someone lent me their trailer to haul it home. very cool.

One of the club members offered me a 96 explorer 8.8 axle (for free) and recommended swapping the D35 out. I am thinking that is a good idea, but i am not completely sure what i am getting into. i saw some posts on the subject and would like to know if i have a handle on what i need to do, or don't need based the experience of others who swapped them out. also, if someone can point me to a one stop shop that sells everything i need for the swap that would be very helpful.

from what I understand, this is what i will need:
1) hardware kit for springs, arms, shocks, and sway bar
2) extended lug nuts. not sure if i need these if i have spacers (see below)
3) 5/8 spacers. i currently have spacers, is it as simple as buying larger ones?
4) longer brake lines
5) new ring/pinion. (i need to re-gear to 4:56 from 3:73)
6) locker
7) drive line adapter plate

can you think of anything i am missing? how about a C-clip eliminator kit?

finally pulled the cover and axle and i found the axle is not broke! its bent but thats is it. looks like my Detroit locker gave way. small bits came out of the diff after draining it. dang it!

swap complete!