I might investigate whether I can swap the 7S body for an 8S body.
If it's a standard Shimano fit, the body itself is a direct swap. But as you have noticed, the 8s is longer. Usually this means that you have to shuffle some spacers around, and redish the wheel. And there's usually a bit of difference between 7 and 8S seals /dust shields. Unless you replace cones etc as well, be ready to have to either apply some ingenuity or to accept a poorer seal.