2wd to 4wd Axle & T case Questions

Hi, I'm new and I've got a couple of questions. I am about to begin the process of changing my '94 2wd to a 4wd. I'm know a lot of you will tell me this is ridiculous but I'm capable and I'm pretty sure it won't be too hard. My goal is to build a reliable, solid 4wd that will never go rock crawling, but might have to dig me out of hip deep clay.
My questions are these:
I'm new to 4wd and I'm concerned about the "strength" questions on the stock D30. Since I'm starting from scratch anything I need to "upgrade"? My wheelin will be work related not play related and I don't ever plan on rock crawling. Also, can I use the pieces from any year or do I need to stay away from something.
Next, transfer cases, stock or upgrade? Any advice given will be greatly appreciated. Sincerely, the newb.

P.S. If it helps, I intend to run 31's and a 3 or 3.5 lift

[krabysniper]

As you have pointed out yourself, you will find that most anyone who knows anything about Jeep XJ's will tell you straight out, it is a huge waste of time and effort to convert a 2 wheel drive XJ to a 4 wheel drive. Has nothing to do with YOUR ability, has everything to do with the differences between the 2. As for getting answers here, again, more waste. This USED to be the best site on the web for finding info (and if your VERY VERY patient and can tolerate the frustrating search here, you can still find good info) but if your looking for an ACTIVE site with XJ'ers and Jeepers galore, the better choice would be to
go HERE - - ->JeepsUnlimited.com Forums - Powered by vBulletin

I think you will find many people there that will re-affirm what you know and what I have said about swapping to 4 wheel on a 2 wheel drive XJ. Again, not because it cant be done, simply because it's a dumb waste of time and effort. Anyway, check them out, you'll find much more activity over there. This place has been killed off by the people running it.

[NIX]

http://forums.off-road.com/jeep-mid-...nual-swap.html (Auto to Manual Swap???) See this recent thread. Converting a 2WD MJ to a 4WD MJ is certainly worth the effort.

Converting an XJ can best be done if you have a complete donor vehicle. If not. be sure you have the same gear front and rear.

The D30 is a strong reliable frontaxle. Older types have the vacuum operated disconnect. You best make sure everything you need is taken in one time from the donor vehicle. Mostly the D35 rear gets blown. Mine sits under the XJ for almost 20 years allready, but it's one of the very few I guess. I don't wheel it hard. You better take the D44 (hard to find) or the newer 8.25. Ford exploders are also good rear end donors, but again, make sure the front and rear diff gears match.