i changed the fluid in my 8.8 this weekend with intent on inspection for a vibration (turned out to be just a u-joint). i noticed the spider gears had a considerable amount of play in any direction (laterally, vertically and "tweaking"), and the cross-pin itself (when spinning the axleshaft) moved side to side about 1mm while seated in the carrier. so i pulled the cross-pin and noticed marring on the pin where the spiders ride. i got all concerned and ordered a new loaded open carrier, and the spiders onthe new one moved vertically/along the cross-pin but in no other direction. just wondering about anyone else's finding in the rears of theirs, conditions of the same parts. i have 88k on this truck, has been beaten like a ba$tard for 4 years. so i installed a new cross pin and returned/got my $250 back for the new carrier and am just gonna go with it, amsoil 80w-90 and all. thanks!

 

I don't think I've ever had that kind of slop with decent gears & pinion shaft. I'm having a pro build me an 8.8", so I'll know in a few days...