Dexter Axle


Dexter Axle Company is an American manufacturer of trailer axles, brakes, suspension components and related running-gear parts, headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana. Dexter is part of DexKo Global, a trailer and recreational-vehicle components group formed through the combination of Dexter and AL-KO Kober Vehicle Technology.

History

Dexter was founded in 1960 by Leonard Dexter in Elkhart, Indiana, initially supplying axle products for markets including manufactured housing and recreational vehicles.
In 2012, The Sterling Group acquired the Dexter Axle business from Tomkins Industries, Inc.
In late 2015 and early 2016, Dexter combined with AL-KO Vehicle Technology to form DexKo Global Inc., with Dexter continuing as a brand within the group.
In 2021, Brookfield Business Partners announced an agreement to acquire DexKo Global for US$3.4 billion.

Products

Dexter manufactures trailer axles and brakes and supplies related components including hubs, drums/rotors, suspension components and brake actuation products, serving utility trailer, recreational vehicle, marine, agricultural and specialty trailer markets.

Acquisitions

Dexter has expanded through acquisitions in adjacent trailer-component categories, including:
  • Unique Functional Products – acquired in 2013; supplier of marine trailer axle and braking components.
  • Tie Down Engineering – acquired in 2017.
  • Redneck Inc. and Redline Products – acquired in 2021; trailer parts distribution businesses.

    Safety and recalls

Dexter-manufactured axles and components have been referenced in safety recalls documented by the U.S. National Highway [Traffic Safety Administration], including recalls citing issues such as potential weld defects or assembly errors affecting axle or wheel-end integrity.