While a 741 pinion has a smaller size pinion bearing,, keep in mind that all the 8 3/4s and the Dana share/interchange the same size yoke, either fine or coarse spline..(which is the narrowest point)
The weak point seems to be breaking teeth, not snapping pinions, that's where the ferd 9" and Dana has an edge, more teeth in contact..
I've used 741s under all applications, and I've never blown a "small bearing",, or broken a pinion yet.. jmo
hope it helps..
