What exactly is the advantage of moving an axle backwards/forwards? I know it increases/decreases wheelbase but what is the reasoning to do this?

On the front axle, for instance, it keeps the wheels from hitting the firewall. When you go up to a bigger tire you have to fit it. Even with the fenders off a big wheel will still contact the body (ie. firewall).

On the front you can't really move it large amounts if you plan on keeping body panels on. With a pick up for instance you can ditch the bed, cut off hangers and move the axle a couple of feet if you wanted to.

longer wheelbase rigs climb better.

Most rigs wanna move the axles out further for tire -to- back-of-fender clearance. When you get some bigger meats on there, you start smashing inner fenderwells on stock wheelbase.

This truck is an 84k10. Would I need that with 35-36 inch tires?

What exactly is the advantage of moving an axle backwards/forwards? I know it increases/decreases wheelbase but what is the reasoning to do this?

Try this forum....

Newbie General 4x4 Discussion
The newbie-friendly forum to ask those "dumb newbie" questions without fear of flaming.

another reason is so when you approach a steep obsticale, your tires hit it first and the rear is so you roll down the tire instead of hitting the rear bumper. That is the reason they call it approach and departure angles. as for what tires fit and that sort of question........go to the newbie section or get flamed here.

take wieght off of front tire and moves to rear tires
look at engine placement vs front axle centerline in corvettes and jeeps

take wieght off of front tire and moves to rear tires
look at engine placement vs front axle centerline in corvettes and jeeps


Oh yeah, and that too.

another reason is so when you approach a steep obsticale, your tires hit it first and the rear is so you roll down the tire instead of hitting the rear bumper. That is the reason they call it approach and departure angles. as for what tires fit and that sort of question........go to the newbie section or get flamed here.
X2
i moved my front 1.5" forward for the approach. that way i give my tires a better chance to hit before the bumper. i also made a front bumper that is very close to the grill (doesnt stick out very far).