Bicycle Mechanics - Trailing/Leading spokes. Does it matter?

I searched through the forums on this topic, but could not find anything.

When a standard rear wheel is built (32 hole, 3 cross), does it matter whether the inner spokes (the ones that run along the inner side of the flange, with the heads facing out) are trailing or leading?

You may have opened a can of worms,...

I have built them both ways and never had an issue with either.
That said, I usually build them with the pulling spokes(they angle counterclockwise) on the outside because most consider that to be the "correct" way. The idea (I believe) is that the outside spoke is the one likely to come in contact with the der and you want it angled away from the direction of turning so that the der will glance off of it rather than being caught by it. Did that make sense?

makes perfect sense. but i agree, it doesnt really matter. especially if you own multiple bikes with zero derailluers :)

You may have opened a can of worms,...

I have built them both ways and never had an issue with either.
That said, I usually build them with the pulling spokes(they angle counterclockwise) on the outside because most consider that to be the "correct" way. The idea (I believe) is that the outside spoke is the one likely to come in contact with the der and you want it angled away from the direction of turning so that the der will glance off of it rather than being caught by it. Did that make sense?

Yes, it makes perfect sense. I heard (don't remember where) that the correct way was to build them the way you build them, with the outside being the pulling spoke.

However, I purchased an inexpensive touring bike a few months back. Today, I noticed that they were laced opposite of what I have always thought was correct. I have not yet had a problem, but as you can imagine, I began to wonder whether I was sold a lemon.

You give great advice Rev Chuck. My mind is at ease. Thanks.

I build all of my multi-speed rear wheels with the trailing spokes on the inside. Here's why...

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/wheelbuild.html#side

from sheldon browns website:

If the chain should overshoot the inner sprocket due to the derailer being mis-adjusted or bent, it is likely to get more seriously jammed between the spokes and the freewheel if the spokes slant so as to wedge the chain inward under load.*

* In the case of fixed-gear or coaster-brake wheels, it is better to lace the opposite way, because a derailed chain is more likely to get jammed by backpedaling in these cases.

just a little something to chew on!

If the chain comes off between the spokes and the cogs, which is most likely to happen as you down shift to climb while pedaling hard against the load of a hill, the spokes will be screwed regardless of the lacing pattern.

Once the chain is off the cog, backpedaling is moot as it has little effect on the reduction of forward motion. Even if the gap is tight and the chain binds pretty good, it will quickly cut through the spokes.