The 8.8's are a rugged unit, heck the Mustang crowd is running in the 10's with them and do little changing other then aftermarket axle and a spool. A spool IMO is worthless on the street, a good posi unit would be a much better deal.... I came up with one of the 8.8 IRS units out of a T-Bird, it may wind up in the Ranchero. Only drawback being the half shafts, they break a lot easier then a one piece axle....

For a cruiser, I wouldn't hesitate to put in an 8.8.