[dsraven]

here is a link to the mark williams site that shows some modes done to an 8.8 for a higher HP vehicle. not saying you need to do all this stuff, jus putting it out there,
if you plan to weld the axle tubes there is a special rod to use so the two different metals meld and the chance of cracking later is less. also be cvarefull not to weld the whole thing at once or it may bend from heat/cooling
you prolly already know this stuff but it is info for others as well
sounds like you will have a nice build when you are done.