Gears & Axles - just double checking my list for an 8.8build

I've been reading thread after thread and have a rough idea of what I need but I wana double check with you guys before i do anything here.

So I've gotta buy:
-a hiltsy t/a mount
-an aftermarket t/a
What exactly is the best t/a to run with this mount??
-8.8 explorer housing
Which 8.8 housing would i need to look for that i could just grind the 10bolt tubes down to slide into the 8.8 without having to have custom sleeves fabbed?? is this also the same rear that would have the 31spline 4.10 posi??
-Moser custom axles
-Everyone says to also upgrade to the carbon clutch packs so i guess ill buy that also.

will my stock drive shaft work?? also what u joint do i need to order??
and all my stock stuff should bolt right back up right?? Am I missing anything here? anything else you'd recommend??

Of the 8.8 rears I looked at none of them have 31-spline axles and 3" tubes. The 31-spline axles are in Explorers and the ones I've seen have 3 1/4" tubes. Ranger 8.8s have 3" tubes that make it easier to install 10-bolt tubes but they typically have 28-spline carriers. The stock driveshaft will work with a conversion u-joint link (http://ls1tech.com/forums/16022993-post114.html).

So i need a ranger rear not an explorer rear?? I can't find which thread it was but i thought someone said that their explorer rear actually narrowed down and thats where they cut it than just used a grinder till they could slide the 10bolt axles in?

forgot I saved this pic but still can't find the thread :bang:

The ranger 8.8s have the sized axle tubes but are 28 spline. You can buy a 31 spline carrier to put in it if you would rather. I do believe some of the later off road rangers came with 31 spline carriers (02 and up fx4s) i believe.

ok so i deff need a ranger rear, thanks guys i deff had that mixed up. Is there anything that i missed in my list?

I think you will get close there. If you use a 28 spline carrier your factory axles will work.