i dont think this is an awesome deal, here in pa there is several u-pull-it yards that are packed with explorers and rangers with 8.8's and they sell for like 150, depending on gearing you may not have to regear with an 8.8, u just have to find the right one. i like the 8.8 better for the application. parts are cheaper, tons out there for spares, cheaper, and they are not hugely differant in strength. the biggest problem with 9's is you drag the pinion through everything. my 8 doesnt have that problem