8 3/4 vs 9" cost-wise

I put in a 9" in mine. It's all new and was pricy, but it will never break on me. Mine was custom cut to match wheel offset for a particular look I was after. I also won't have to hunt used classifieds to pick up a part. I can just call any parts dealer and get it quickly. Food for thought for you.
And this is why you go Dana, Same effect.