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It doesnt really matter what the lug pattern is for the axle. The set of 6 lug rims I have, I got for free so its no loss if I cant use them. I am putting on a 16" LT setup in the front that is about 3-4" wider on the front and instead of keeping my factory axle I wanted to upgrade to a stronger and wider axle that I could build up stronger than my current axle and I wanted to have more options to pick from. I dont want to use spacers!!!! so they are out of the question. I basically want an axle from an F-150 that could hold up to at least 20" of travel and withstand a lot of abuse from about 400+ hp and a locker.
Are you linking the truck or getting the Giant 64" kit to get 20" of travel? 400hp and your thinking of running an 8.8" in a long travel truck? You need a 9" with 35 spline axles and a NOD case with that kind of HP. For what your planning on doing stay FAR AWAY from a "Cast center section" rearend. They are junk for desert trucks!
any of the previously listed axles( big bearing 9 inch 31 spline and up, 31 spline 8.8, sterling 10.25, 9.75) will all hold up just fine to tires from 35 inch on down and even bigger than 44s in many cases. as for things to watch out for, the old 9 inch axles came in half a dozen or more different "builds" the original axles are far from as durable as they were the day it was assembled. as for the strongest axle listed, i would say the sterling 10.25 wins but its also heavy enough to be a boat anchor (not to mention the housing is about the same size as a basketball). we need to know your application before we can offer you sound advice.
i am not familiar with desert trucks in anyway shape or form. i am much more familiar with trail rigs and mud bog trucks.
D44 is not a great idea which is why Ford droppped it way back then.
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