Hope this helps. I found it on another website. It is a good write up.
Ford 8.8 Rear Axle
Pros
It's Under There Already
VSS/ABS Models
Cons
5 lug, 1/2 ton, Semi-Floater
C-Clips
Weak Carrier Bearing Caps
Weak Housings
Ford 9" Rear Axle
Pros
Common
Tons of Aftermarket Parts
Ground Clearance
Full-Floater Conversions
Indestructable (If You Have the Cash)
Cons
5 lug, 1/2 Ton, Semi-Floater
No VSS/ABS
Low Pinion
See "If You Have the Cash"
Dana 60 Rear End
Pros
Some 35 spline
Good Aftermarket
Decent Ground Clearance
Rare VSS Models
Cons
Some 16 Spline
Most Non VSS/ABS
3/4 ton? 1 ton? Who the Hell Knows
Dana 70 Rear End
If you want a 1-ton axle, but don't need VSS, and loathe GM, this axle is for you.
Pros
Fairly Common
Cheap
Bulletproof In Stock Form
Cons
No Spool
Poor Ground Clearance
Non VSS/ABS
Visteon Sterling 10.25
If you want a 1-ton axle, and you need VSS, this axle is for you.
Pros
VSS Compatable in '87+ (with speedo re-calc)
90% Bolt In
Ford PN F4TZ-1177-C Fixes Pre-'94 Axle Seal Problem
Cons
Weak Pinion Threads
Axle Seals Leak
Some Limited Gear Ratios, No Spool
Expensive
Corporate 14 Bolt
If you want a 1-ton axle, don't need VSS, and don't care about "brand loyalty", this axle is for you.
Pros
Dirt Cheap
Bulletproof In Stock Form
Cheap Detroits
Can Shave Pumpkin
Some Stock Detroits and 4.11 or 4.56s Gears
Cons
No VSS/ABS
No Spools or ARB
Some Semi-Float Versions
Massive Pumpkin
*gasp!* It's GM