[bobcowan]

I agree with above. The 8.8 won't be the weak link, you'll break traction long before you break the diff.

If you're using the stock typ LSD, you'll wear the clutch packs out pretty soon. Keep an ear out for the One Wheel Peel. When that starts happening, replace the the diff with a worm gear like the T2 or TruTrak.

I would disagree a little with the gear selection, though. With that much torque, you really don't need additional torque multiplication of a low gear. But, in a street car, a low (granny) gear is often quite handy in parking lots, heavy traffic, loading on a trailer, etc. It's nice at a cruise in to be able to creep along in first without slipping the clutch. If you're worried about too low of a gear, you can always start out in 2nd. As long as 4th and 5th match your driving style and engine performance, leave it alone.