The 8.8 is a very strong differential. Strong as the GM 12 bolt (which is basically a carbon copy) and close to the Ford 9 inch.
As far as serviceability as I stated above, if you can make axle flanges that can mate to Mercedes style annular axles, then you basically can use off the shelf parts.
Annular Axle
Your best bet if you want use the same housing and gear ratio, is to get a 190 16v LSD carrier and do exactly that Tom did. But the issue is your mostly likely are going to have to renew the clutches and Mercedes clutches are expensive. Something like way north of $500.00. Where else the 8.8 clutches can be had very cheap. But it can be done and you will still have off the shelf parts with nothing to fabricate.
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