In Need Of Some 8 3/4 Technical Info

If you are going to use it and shorten it this is what I would do.
Decide if you are going with mini tubs or spring relocate.
If not pick what wheels/tires you want to run
I cut a C body down to aprox 55 5/8" drum to drum (B,E,C drums)
If you are going disk you mighjt be able to go alittle shorter.
I then used the 3/4" offset spring hangers and did not cut the car.
When you buy axles they cost the same reguardless of lenght.