8 3/4" How Strong?

I think that if a dana has a gear ratio you can live with, i would go that route, rather than put a bunch of money into an 8 3/4. I realize you are talking street use and autocross rather than high traction/high stress drag racing app, but I still don't care for 600hp/manual trans/ 8 3/4 combination.
Then there is always the heretic option.... a nine inch. Much better ratio selection, replaceable center section, lots and lots of strength upgrades available, and can be built much stronger than a 8 3/4 (my opinion).