[Sean Marconette]

Jake,

Its not spelled out in the rule book, but has to have axle retention, which 9" housing ends will accomplish. In my opinion an 8.8 for stock is ok, but gear selection and gear material is not optimal. I would not waste your time with an 8.8 for SS, due to gear selection. 9" ends have been used instead of C-clip eliminators.


This is the section for Stock.

REAR END
Original rear end may be replaced with another from the same
automobile manufacturer; truck rear end prohibited. Aluminum
center section permitted only on vehicles that were originally
equipped with same. Distance between backing plates may not
be changed. Any gear ratio that fits third-member case or
housing permitted. Limited-slip or ratchet-type rear ends
permitted. Reinforcement of spring perch permitted. Spools
permitted only with aftermarket axles. Aftermarket axles not
required for front-wheel-drive vehicles. Larger brakes may be
used. Replacement rear end may be narrowed or widened to
obtain original rear-end width. Bracing or beefing up the rearend
housing permitted.
Swing axle differential may be replaced with conventional
housing; stock trailing arms must be retained, may be beefed up
and adapted to housing, must retain transverse spring. Must
install Panhard bar. Frame may be notched for driveshaft
clearance. Distance between OEM backing plates and OEM
wheelbase must be maintained. Coil-over shock or four-link
adaptations prohibited. See General Regulations 2:11.

2:11 REAR END
Welded spider gear rear ends prohibited in all classes. Four-wheel
drive permitted per class requirements. Aftermarket axles and axle retention
device mandatory on Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, Top
Alcohol Dragster, Top Alcohol Funny Car, Comp, Super Comp,
Super Gas, Super Street, and 10.99 or quicker E.T. cars; also
mandatory on any car (regardless of class or E.T.) with a spool.