[dsraven]

also, don't rule out the ford 8.8, it's pretty strong as well. available from a wrecker with discs, posi and 3.73 if you want.. anti sway bars from rangers can be added easily as well as easy park brake connections and parts readily available at most auto parts places. check out the ranger station for a write up on them. explorers have them with an offset pumkin but they can be narrowed easily by taking some off the long side axle tube and then using 2 short side axles.
just a thought. they have a C clip axle retainer, which some will say,whoa, you'll lose an axle. how many fords have you seen with on the side of the road for a lost axcle, other things yes, but not lost axles. lol.