Yeah, there is a C-Clip elminator kit from Superior for the 8.8. It actually brings back the half inch width difference that the TJ axle has over the 8.8.
I wouldn't necessarily say you need to do it before you put the axle in. The 31 spline stock 8.8 shafts are plenty strong for runnin 35's and to be honest I've never seen a C-Clip break on that axle. I've seen shafts break, but not because of the C-Clip.