8.8 swap question

[kill_burst]

I am getting ready to do a 8.8 swap. I was going to purchase new perches, however I was wondering if I could still utilize the shock mount plate for my shocks or is there a benefit of using something else? I have seen many kits however they seem to be for XJs and not MJs. I am staying SUA. Thanks

[SBpunk]

You sure can! Just need to drill out the holes to size. Those plates are really thick and can take it. I'm currently in the middle of this exact swap and thought my shocks were going to be too long. Reused the plates and put the aftermarket shock tabs in the parts box for later.

[kill_burst]

Fantastic, thank you. So looks like I just need to purchase some perches and weld them on.

[Pete M]

and new u-bolts  :thumbsup:   if I remember right, flange adapters can be found under some ford Aerostars.

[SBpunk]

For emergency brakes - https://www.amazon.com/Lokar-EC-81FC-Clevis-Ford-Explorer/dp/B000CORQ2Y/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1495561633&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=Lokar+clevis+adapter

U-Bolts - http://www.ruffstuffspecialties.com/catalog/UB325.html

Perches - http://www.ruffstuffspecialties.com/catalog/88PERCH.html

3 qts (2.5) of 75w90 diff gear with LSD fluid if you have LSD
Flange Adapter - https://www.amazon.com/Dana-Spicer-2-2-1379-Flange-Adapter/dp/B009X1XF0E or junkyard make sure you get the bolts too

 

[kill_burst]

Great info. Thanks a bunch.

 

I purchased these perches before I saw your response. I am staying SUA. I read that the axle tube was 3.25 on a 8.8. Think I will be ok?

http://www.ruffstuffspecialties.com/catalog/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=ruffstuff&Product_Code=SU-PERCH&Category_Code=JeepXJ

[kill_burst]

Do you happen to remember what measurements you used for the perches?

[SBpunk]

I can't remember off the top of my head. I ordered the easy swap kit from ruff stuff and everything worked out great. I got the 3 hole to push my axle back a tad bit since it was starting to creep forward with the new MT springs and longer shackles. I tried to get some pics going for you to show but on a gov computer and they're stupid slow. Pretty sure it was the 3.25 inch since its slightly bigger tubes than the 8.25 and they're 3 inch

[87Warrior]

I used the RuffStuff simple swap kit when I did the 8.8 under my 86. The perches I used were identical to the ones SBpunk linked. Since I was staying close to stock height and SUA, I liked having the availability to set the axle back a little so I could reuse the stock drive shaft+companion flange with the 8.8's longer housing. The perches you linked will work just fine to get the axle under the truck.

 

For the perch measurement, just crawl under your truck and measure center of leaf to center of leaf with the old axle still installed. Make sure you get the pinion angle set correctly before buring on the perches.

[SBpunk]

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[SBpunk]

Here's one you can kind of see the shocks. I can get a better pic once everything is set back up.
 

[Crash]

I used the spring plate/shock mounts from the exploder donor vehicle. Works fine.

[SBpunk]

I used the spring plate/shock mounts from the exploder donor vehicle. Works fine.

Lol I wasn't that talented with the cut off tool. Looked like a shark chewed on the old spring plates

[kill_burst]

Awesome information everyone. Will be going to work as soon as I get the perches in the mail.

[kill_burst]

BTW. SBpunk, truck looks great. nice work on the 8.8

[zomeizter]

will do this very soon myself and am wondering, does one use the parking brake cables on the Furd axle or a set needs to be purchased?

[SBpunk]

There are adapters I linked a few posts up. You use your stock cables to adapter that connects to the calipers.

[SBpunk]

[SBpunk]

Photo is from another member here not mine

[zomeizter]

Nicely done, thanks!

[Crash]

I run ZJ park brake cables on my 8.8.

[SBpunk]

Here's a pic of the shocks. Just finished all that's left is hooking up ebrake