Which Type of Rod End is Best for Automotive Applications?

What are rod ends?

Rod ends are mechanical articulating joints. They are used to connect the ends of control rods, steering links, tie rods, or any other precision articulating joint. 

They are used to connect the ends of a control rod, steering link, tie rod, or any other precision articulating joint. They are an important component of many machines, especially in the automotive, aerospace, and other heavy industries. There are many types of rod ends, but all of them use the same basic design. 

Rod ends consist of a round or square-shaped body that is surrounded by a cylindrical sleeve, with a knurled or threaded outer surface. Rod ends are typically made of stainless steel.

Male vs Female Rod Ends?

A rod end bearing is a device that is used to reduce friction between two rotating shafts. There are three types of rod end bearings, each of which is designed for a specific application. 

They are, male rod end bearings, female rod end bearings, and spherical rod end bearings. Male rod end bearings, which are commonly used in construction equipment and machine tools, are designed with external threading. 

Male rod end bearings are typically used on the shafts of rotating machines. Males are recommended for high speed applications and females are recommended for low speed applications.

Female rod end bearings, which are commonly used in industrial and automotive applications, are designed with internal threading. The difference between male and female rod end bearings is that male rod end bearings are designed with external threading while female rod ends have internal threading. 

Male and female rod end bearings are similar in the sense that they both offer the same benefits and are compatible with each other.

Best Rod Ends for Automotive Applications?

There are many options when it comes to rod ends. The goal is to select the type that's best suited for the task at hand. The most common rod in has a spherical bearing which allows a wide range of articulation and because of their metal-on-metal design they're more precise than polly bushed rod ends and widely employed in competition applications.

They are available in both commercial grade and a stronger type made of 4130 chromoly steel. They can be mixed and matched as required with chromoly. It is preferred in competition applications for obvious reasons.

Morrison's own version of this popular design is made from rugged 17-4 stainless steel and features a steel sleeve with two polyurethane bushings while they don't have the articulation of spherical bearings. 

The poly does flex and allows for some rotational movement. They help insulate road noise and are easily rebuildable.

The articulation of spherical bearings and the quietness of poly bushings are combined in the innovative johnny joint. It's perfect for high-performance street and track day vehicles as it has a wide range of movement yet does not transfer noise. Hey zerk fitting allows the johnny joint to be greased plus they can be easily rebuilt. 

Designed primarily for drag racing applications Morrison's solid rod ends are made from heat treated 4130 chromoly steel and can handle tremendous and shock loads. They're mostly used with ladder bar racing suspensions as they can bind on the street and will transmit vibration. On the plus side they're relatively inexpensive.

Author Profile 

Name - Sumit Padia 

Email - padiaent.new1@gmail.com

Padia enterprise carries a wide selection of IKO & LS rod ends for suspension applications in sizes from 3/8 of an inch on up as well as mounting brackets, tube adapters and clevis ends. Our technical staff can provide additional information and guide you in your selection. Visit us online at padiaent.Com to know more. 

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