I want my 4x4 04 ranger to have 8 inches of lift but the only lift kit i could find is a 5 inch lift. Where should i go from there. or should i go in a completely different direction?

 

You do a 5" suspension lift, and a 3" body lift.

 

+1 ^^^

5" suspension lift parts seen here: https://www.therangerstation.com/tec...ift_kits.shtml
Doesn't include front drive shaft which you will need

The body lift is less expense for parts, but can be more time consuming because of steering shaft and wiring between body and frame, wires need to have enough length to be extended, so you may need to remount some parts to get that extra length
Info here on that: https://www.therangerstation.com/tec...unt_lift.shtml

The bumpers are mounted to the frame, so when you lift the body up there will be a gap between bumper and frame you will need to fill, its just for looks, not required