Shortened 8 3/4

If it's 52 inches from housing flange to flange it isn't shortened. That's the stock width. If your talking 52" from outside axle flange to flange that would be about 5-6 inches shorter than stock. The only thing to keep in mind is if it is 5-6" shorter than stock you may have to put in mini tubs for more wheel/tire clearance because it'll move the wheels in alot.