Actual Cash Value is probably more common for autos.
In our state of Michigan, the vehicle must be less than 3 model years old to have Replacement Value. After that, it automatically changes to ACV.
I don't think there is enough strength difference between 4.88 and 5.13 to warrant choosing one or the other for that reason.
The biggest factor in gear set strength is the tooth contact surface area. I think when people conclude that 4.88 is stronger than 5.13, they are just looking at the...
I was in the same boat as you. Wanted a lift for looks. Also concerned about the axles being centered because things like that bother me. I ended up going with the Clayton 2.5” Ride Right. It’s a little cheaper than the Mopar lift, but more expensive if you add shocks. I’m using Bilstein 5100...
Does your dash say 4H Auto when you shift to it?
This thread, someone got the wrong shifter:
https://www.jeepgladiatorforum.com/forum/threads/newbie-question-4wd-auto-part-time.24254/
You don't have to collect stats. You would've already heard about 5.13 pinions breaking if they were. People have been running that ratio forever. It probably got even more popular when TJs got the 4 speed auto in 2003. You just don't hear about 5.13 pinion gears breaking.
Similar stuff happens with Jeeps. Beds that are crooked, loose bolts, 3.6L failures, etc.
None of us know how often it happens. It’s a subjective opinion when it comes to build quality and reliability.