Finding The Right Rod End For Your Application

There are thousands of different applications that require rod ends, and seemingly just as many rod ends themselves. So how do you know which option is right for you? Do you need to worry about strength? High oscillation or misalignment? Maybe you simply need something that provides quiet operation.

This is where we can help. We regularly work with OEM and industrial partners to understand their project and how rod ends are being used to identify the best solution for their unique needs. From lawn and garden, power equipment and agricultural machinery to fitness products, we’ve provided great solutions in a wide range of industries, applications and environments.

How do we find the right rod end?

It all depends on your key design requirements, where rod ends will be used and how they will be used. Our team has decades of industry experience to provide options that are well-suited to your application while meeting requirements like price points, serviceability and more.

The wide range of rod end options we have available helps us make recommendations that suit your needs. Here are a few examples of partners we work with to do just that, from discovery and testing to implementation and ongoing support.

Zero Turn Lawn Mowers

Our partner was looking for an alternative to mild steel rod ends that were experiencing failures. They were initially exploring our 3-piece rod ends and sent an image of their testing. Based on discussions of their expected loads, viewing their application and additional discussions, we recommended the use of our Endure Loader Slot Rod End family (XM/XF). They implemented this solution across their product line and experienced immediate improvements.

Lawn and Garden Equipment

Our partner had a dog bone-style linkage from another supplier that consisted of a 2-piece rod end at each end of the linkage. They were encountering excessive noise issues and were looking for a solution. Based on their information and application, our team recommended the use of Loader Slot rod ends. Their engineering team then ran 1 million bump dyno cycles of the QA1 samples without any noise, providing a great solution to their squeaky problem.

Control System

While developing a new joystick, our partner sought a rod end that provided low friction without worrying about moisture. We suggested the use of our N Series rod end, which would provide the feel and lubrication properties they wanted with a nylon self-lubricating race. This provided the protection and longevity they needed while maintaining the appropriate feel for their users.

Fitness Equipment

A producer of gym equipment needed extremely high misalignment to suit the design of a unique piece of machinery. After exploring different rod end options, we proposed our PCY series, which offers the highest misalignment in the industry. This option was able to meet the client’s pricing needs while working well within the design of the machine.

See How We Can Help You

Our team has the expertise and resources to help you find the right rod end for your product. Get in touch to get started.