Can an 8.25 rear end be narrowed?

here is what a friend of mine did..

OK - Update without pics....
Stock Explorer 8.8 rear, 31 spline axles, 3.73 (may change to 3.21) gear, limited slip, disc brakes - $250 complete from junkyard. Add 2005 and up mustang wheels (17x8, 6.3" bs) put wheels in the center of the wheel wells. 275/50/17's are a close fit (1/4 to 1/2" all around, may have to down a size so they don't rub. Also moved springs in 1/2"...