Suspension lifts... Sugestions

[4x4junkie]

Wrong, the stock BII driveshaft will crap it's guts out if you lift it more than 2".

One option is using the driveshaft from an Explorer (I'd use the front one, as it has the DC cluster on the forward end. You'll need to swap your t-case yoke and get a rear flange for it though. Unless you have the longer A4LD trans (or FM-146/M5OD, both not stock on your year), it should all bolt right in).

The other is have a shaft custom-tailored to your truck ($$$)

 

[Totalled]

An 85, 5 speed BII should have a factory u-joint shaft...

 

[Hahnsb2]

That is not good logic. You want room to flex without tearing into your fenders

That's why you cut the fenders, low COG is the way to go.