Observations that were interpreted to provide evidence for equivalent functions of all axonemal dyneins should be reinterpreted, and models based on this assumption should be abandoned. In the future, attempts to understand the mechanisms for flagellar bending, oscillation, and bend propagation should start from the assumption that each type of axonemal dynein may have a specific function. At least three distinct functions can now be identified: bend initiation, maintenance of the angle of propagating bends, and generation of power to overcome viscous resistances. Only the last of these three functions is an outer arm dynein function.