All of the UK Ford Explorers came with the 8.8 fitted with a 3.73:1 ratio, an LSD and 31 spline shafts. They do have an off-centre pigs head but normally you have to narrow them anyway as they too long. Depending on what car it's going under there is a cheap way of narrowing the axle using two 'short' sides, but still works out around 55" from memory. They are cheap from breakers though as no one wants one as they don't break - around £80 is normal. Andy Robinson/Hauser/Chris Isaacs will all narrow the axle and supply and fit shafts to any length for around £650.

It's a good option as 8 inch axles are really drying up i this country - I was looking for one for quite some time!