I installed an 8.8 Friday night, complete with Powertrax No Slip, then ventured in to a full bearing replacement on it.
First time ever tearing down a rear end that far. Had done axle bearings and lockers before, and pulled a few carriers but never a pinion. All and all it wasn't too bad except for getting the pinion nut drawn down enough to set the rotational drag. No the 8.8 is all happy a quiet. With any luck we managed to get it all done correctly and it will last.
Having access to a shop with a press was a big help too. I would never have attempted it in the driveway....that would have caused some tools to fly for sure.
May be time to look at buying a few tools and try a differential setup next time. At least thought enough ahead to save the old bearing so we can make setup bearings out of them.
Next weekend I might just get the front locker installed. Then it's time to look a frame stiffeners and sliders. getting close to being able to leave my XJ alone for a while and just wheel it.