Highland bands 3/8" hardware

[aquaregia]

Apparently Highland uses 3/8" hardware on their 7.25" bands but 5/16" on their 8" bands. All my current twinsets use 5/16" hardware, and it seems that other manufacturers use 5/16" across the board. Does anyone know why Highland has this disparity between their products?

Is there any reason I can't toss the 3/8" hardware and stick a 5/16" set on? The pressure should be taken up by the washers, so the extra 1/16" space in there shouldn't make a difference right? My current plates are all 5/16", and I don't like the idea of having to carry around multiple sizes for backup wingnuts, etc.

 

[Scared Silly]

Is there any reason I can't toss the 3/8" hardware and stick a 5/16" set on?

Don't do it. If you have to ask you just do not understand the complications that it will lead to. I mean being 1/16 of an inch off will let the bolts spinning too easily in the holes. They will rattle around as well. Serious issues that are far too complicated to discuss in this forum. No you should sell the bands and get new ones with the holes and bolts you required. If you decide to attempt to use the 5/16" hardware make sure you have someone film it, just in case. Oh yeah, don't forget to say "here hold my beer" just beforehand. .