13' Scamp axle question

[Michael Warren]

I have a quick question concerning Scamp axles. I have a 1980 with a leading arm axle. This probably has been discussed many times on this forum, but I am slightly confused.

Is it possible to take a trailing arm axle and reverse it to be a leading arm? I saw several posts that appear like this is what was done, but another post said that this is not recommended.

Thanks for any input you may have.

[floyd]

I have a quick question concerning Scamp axles. I have a 1980 with a leading arm axle. This probably has been discussed many times on this forum, but I am slightly confused.

Is it possible to take a trailing arm axle and reverse it to be a leading arm? I saw several posts that appear like this is what was done, but another post said that this is not recommended.

Thanks for any input you may have.

Your question is moot, Dexter will build a replacement leading arm axle upon request, eventhough they are no longer in regular production.
Dexter can be contacted directly and they are always willing to consult with you and advise you on your order.
http://www.dexteraxle.com/e_z_lube_system

[Andrew Gibbens]

A guy using one of my (teardrop) trailer designs mounted his unbraked Dexter axle the wrong way round, because he didn't know any better. I suggested he might like to get Dexter to comment on it and they were perfectly happy with it being left in leading arm orientation.

My understanding is that leading and trailing arm axles are identical and it is just the recommendation to manufacturers to use them like this that has stopped.

What would not be a good idea would be to replace an original leading arm axle, that always had 'up' start angles, with a new axle in leading arm position but with a 'down' start angle to give a greater ride height. A 'down' start angle leading arm axle has substantially reduced suspension effectiveness (compliance).

Andrew