Are the stock axles on a 4.0 Ranger 4x4 strong enough for 4-wheeling? My buddy said no, but he's a Bronco guy. I figured the lighter weight of the Ranger would make the 8.8 and Dana 35 sufficient. I haven't bought a vehicle yet. I plan on buying this summer. I'm just trying to do some research and educate myself. I'm leaning toward a Ranger if I can because they are smaller and plentiful.

 

The 8.8 rear end is fine, it's stronger than a dana 44 , as for the front, I'm not sure how much hell you could give that ifs before you break something. I've never broken anything on mine and I have ragged on it pretty hard ,but not for a long period of time. I'd put a solid front if you got the bucks.