What is the difference between early and late front axles?

[JPaganel]

Looking at the parts listings, the bushings and speedo drives are the same, so the axles are the same diameter.

However, the 87 and earlier axle is listed as 36Y-25181-00-00 superseded by 5X3-25381-00-00, while the 89 and up axle is listed as
18G-25381-00-00, and is a different price.

What is the difference? Can they interchange?

[racerrad8]

I believe the early axle is longer to be able to accept the nut whereas the later axle uses the lower fork leg which is threaded as the nut.

No, I do not believe they will not interchange.

I stock the later model axle; 89-93 Front Axle

Randy - RPM

[FJ_Hooligan]

I believe the early axle is longer to be able to accept the nut whereas the later axle uses the lower fork leg which is threaded as the nut.

No, I do not believe they will not interchange.
[/u][/url]

Randy - RPM

That appears to be a triple negative! 

If you wanted to use the older axle with the newer fork legs, you would need to drill out the threads on the left side slider for the axle to fit through.

[Burns]

if a no to a no is a yes, then a third no would be a no to a yes, and so a no, ultimtely.
Some may consider this observation to be a valenced remark.

[ribbert]

if a no to a no is a yes, then a third no would be a no to a yes, and so a no, ultimtely.
Some may consider this observation to be a valenced remark.

No

[chiz]

I used my 84 axle on the later sliders so I could fit R1 calipers... The axle fit fine screwed rite into the left leg.
Chiz