<VV> Rear Wheel Hubs

[Ewell Mills]

Recent inquiry about the differences in rear wheel hubs on a 65 and a 66 and
later has me asking this question.  Since I have just finished redoing both
sides of a 65 and also a 67, I find absolutely no difference in the two except
the size of the bolts that secure the U-Joints to both the wheel bearing
assembly and also the differential yoke.  The 65 uses 1/4" bolts at both
places, and the 66 and later use 5/16" bolts at both places. I have also
rebuilt a spare set that has the larger bolts, and predrilled the backing
plates so as to usable on either side as spares.
My question is twofold.  The first concerns why the general went from 1/4"
bolts to 5/16" bolts.  Obviously the larger ones on 66 forward are stronger,
but was this done due to failure of the smaller ones, or just a precaution.
Secondly, if one replaces a bearing assembly that had the small bolts with a
spare that has the larger bolts, is it really necessary to also replace the
differential yoke so that both sizes match?  I have never heard it mentioned
that the smaller ones at either end were subject to failure.  ?????

Cecil Mills
Cocoa, Fl.
65 with 1/4" bolts
66 with 5/16" bolts
Spare assemblies with 5/16" bolts, usable on either side.