I know this is
but Im still on the fence with replacing the rear end on mine after freaking 16 years with this YJ
Biggest tires I ever plan to run are probably skinny 33s on this YJ. Then probably put some 4:88s in there, chromoly shafts and a No-Slip in the D35 and cold-treat everything.
My long-standing theory -- and it's just a theory -- is that most of the guys who've busted the D35 C-clip on the Jeep Wranglers in the last 20-25 years were running the 4.0L with big tires and a rear locker and with/with-no re-gear and were too aggressive on the throttle and then SNAP.
Yes, I've heard of the breaks occurring on the street in 2wd, but it's like some doctor effectively said -- "if your arm hurts when you raise it, don't raise it." In other words, drive it so you don't break it on the street.
If they have the low-torque 4banger, some stronger parts in the rear end and some skinny-pedal consideration, I suspect YJ/TJ 4banger owners can the manage the risks involved with the D-35
I'll still bring spare axle shafts and all on trail runs and all, though.
Edit: For you guys installing diesels or V8s or doing a turbo or supercharger down the line, though, it's a different story altogether. Im just talking the old, normally-aspirated 4banger.