The '99 TJ

[CLNethery]

Decided it was time to move my problems into one single thread....hopefully this thread stays short over the years *knocks on wood*

Hidden falls trip in the fall has left me with a 4000lb paper weight for the last few months and I've finally scrapped up enough cash to do something about it. After making an attempt to "fix" the broken D35, I discovered the carnage was far worse than we had originally thought. Long story short, I picked up a Ford 8.8 (3.73 limited slip) at Scott's Auto (junkyard) this past week with the help of camperspecial67. Currently shopping around for the right bracket kit for the 8.8, and decided before I purchase one I should ask if any of y'all have a suggestion. I'll need the typical brackets for spring perch, shock mounts, sway bar etc., as well as brake lines and drive shaft adapter. I've found a few (links below), some come more complete than others -- trying to get the most bang for my buck. Other questions I had, what are y'alls opinions on adding a truss? Moderate wheeler, so my initial thought is that it isn't necessary.

http://www.artecindustries.com/TJ_8.8_Swap_Kit

http://eastcoastgearsupply.com/c-130...8-8-parts.html

http://www.knowwhere2jeep.com/know-w...ler-tj-lj.html

[85cj7]

More options for you.

http://www.ironrockoffroad.com/10249.html

https://www.ballisticfabrication.com...-axle-swap-kit

http://www.barnes4wd.com/Jeep-TJ-88-...uss_p_498.html

https://www.aa-mfg.com/rear-axle-swa...-jeep-wrangler

I personally wouldn't spend the time and money on a truss for what I think you want to do. The 8.8 is so much stronger (both internally and the housing) than a d-35 that the upgrade alone in stock form will be a huge improvement. Keep it simple and get it back on the road.

[CLNethery]

Update on 8.8 swap: Went with the "knowwhere2jeep" bracket kit because it came with the brake line set up and adapter for the drive shaft. The company was easy to work with, told them I was on a time crunch and they got it to my door step in 2 days for the same price as standard shipping. Pulled an all nighter Thursday night and (with the help of a few others) got it plugged, loaded on the trailer, and on the road to hidden falls for the weekend . I put it through the ringer at hidden falls, and it handled everything like a champ. The only "con" that I found was the lack of ground clearance that it allows, found myself scrapping and getting hung up quite a bit.