<VV> Bolt Size Question

[sethracer at aol.com]

Bob writes:
I am going to replace the rear wheel bearings on my Ultravan this year  but
to do that I need to determine the bolt sizes in the universal  joint
carrier.


Brian writes:

Hi  Bob,

I'm away from DC right now and can't measure, but maybe I can give  you  
a useful clue.  The '65 bolts are the same size - not  grade, but size  
- as valve cover bolts.  I think they have  7/16" heads, but you can  
check by measuring any standard 1/4"  bolt.  The bigger '66 - '69 bolts  
have a special deep, smaller  cross section head, which I *think* is  
3/8".
 
So Seth writes:


Nope - Both are 7/16 bolt heads. But as Brian mentions, the heads are  
quite different in appearance. The 65 are identical to the valve cover bolts -  
but (we hope) with the Grade 8 markings on the head - a few radial lines, 
and a  loose lock washer. The 66-up use a taller head with a recessed center 
and an  integral flange at the bottom where they contact the strap over the 
U-joint cap  and no washer. 
 
Both use the same bearings inside 65-69, though and the same Ujoints. 
 
Seth  Emerson

C's the Day! - Corvair, Camaro,  Corvette