If you have an 8", why not keep it and replace the pumpkin with an 8" drop-in posi? Lot less hassle, posi will give you traction to both tires, and an 8" is as good as a 9" for all but the most demanding purposes. I know a guy that gets about a foot of air with his 8" and that is all most of us would ever need.... As for gearing, start at 3.55 for best power. Anything lower is doggy, and anything much higher is great streetlight to streetlight, but sucky in the gas consumption and rpm areas. Just my opinions....