7 Speed --> 9/10 Speed

[weastman]

I am interested in changing a 90s Scott MTB that I am rebuilding from the current 3x7 to 1x10 (or 1x9 if budget is too tight).
I would be looking to buy a newer 10 speed shifter and derailleur (hopefully with clutch if it doesn't break the bank).

The one area I am a little unsure about is how I can get a 10speed cassette on the wheel.
Is there any way I can fit a 10 speed freehub body to my current wheel or will I need to buy a new wheel?
If not is there any other work around or will I need to bite the bullet and buy a wheel?

 

[drystonepaul]

You won't be able to get any greater than a 7 speed cassette on a 7 speed freehub body.
Depending on the hub, you may be able to fit a wider freehub body to accommodate more sprockets.

 

[weastman]

Yeh I was wondering if I could just get a 10speed freehub and bolt that on? What would stop this working?

 

[Sir Neil d'Menture]

https://www.cornant.uk/info/cassettes.html
This might help.