I have no issue running 8 3/4. 2 of my cars use stock parts without failure (12.50 stick, 11.0 auto). But if it was going in a car that was going to be raced often I'd use a junkyard Dana. Mine and Dizusters turbo car got new ends, axles, and a spool. I cut the ends and brackets off and welded on new perches and ends. Both started out as a 8 lug full floaters. Dizusters still uses the junkyard gear set. Mine uses recycled 8 3/4 factory housing ends. Spool, axles, and gears cost the same either way. With a Dana you'll get either a 3.55 or 4.10 so you may not even need to buy a gear. I'm cheap. Junkyard Dana's are a great bang for the buck.
Doug