Completely agree with everyone. Thinking out loud more than anything. Notice that I'm expecting trail repairs. I'm actually enjoying a bit of the torture of learning this much about MLC. Prior to MLC I wouldn't have changed my own oil, let alone ordered what I need to do things like diff fluid, tuneup, etc.
But there is a point where spending money needs to be done smartly. As Nick said, why drop $200 on a d35 locker and $100 on used spares, when I could get a stronger platform for the same price (less install and perches)? Alternatively, $200 for an Aussie, find a c-clip eliminator, and I could likely get full locked rear without the c-clip trail repair hassel. Probably for less than it would cost me to have sMike put an open 8.8 under MLC.
If it sounds like I'm indecisive, it is because I am. Is locked rear of more value than getting 4.56 gearing to keep 33s on year round? Where do long/adjustable control arms come in? New tires? I'm kind of getting to the point where, especially since I have lots of spare d35 parts, I should leave it open and wait on the axle swap until I've hit some bigger issues. Like gears, DW, and tires.
At least that's what I'm thinking for this 3 minute window.
