Rod Ends

What are Rod Ends?

Rod ends (also called rod eyes or solid rod ends) are forged fasteners with a threaded shank and a solid eye. They create a strong, fixed connection point for linkages, brackets, and suspension parts where a spherical bearing is not required. Our selection features USA-made, drop-forged rod ends from Ken Forging in carbon steel, alloy steel, and stainless steel.

Solid Rod Ends vs Spherical Rod Ends

• Solid rod ends: Rigid eye with no internal bearing. Best when you want a durable anchor point and the joint does not need rotational misalignment.
• Spherical/Heim style: Includes a ball and race to allow misalignment and articulation. Choose these when angular movement is required.

Why choose Rod Ends from Ken Forging

• USA made and drop forged for strength and repeatable quality
• Materials: C1030–C1035 carbon steel, 4140 alloy steel, and 304/316 stainless
• Finishes: Black oxide, passivated or electropolished stainless for corrosion resistance
• Machined and threaded shanks for clean assembly and consistent fit

Applications for Rod Ends

• Automotive suspension and drivetrain: ladder bar and torque-arm attachments
• Industrial linkages: control rods, actuators, and general machinery tie points
• Material handling and fabrication fixtures that need a strong eye anchoring point

Sizing and fit

• Thread size & direction: Match UNC/UNF and left/right-hand where required by your linkage.
• Shank length under head: Ensure full thread engagement without bottoming out.
• Eye ID/OD: Verify pin, clevis, or bushing fit and required bearing surface.
• Load path: Keep the load in-line through the eye; avoid side-loading.
• Environment: Choose alloy or stainless and the appropriate finish for moisture, chemicals, or outdoor exposure.

Installation tips

• Use a jam nut or locking method to maintain preload in vibrating assemblies.
• Align components to keep the load straight through the eye and shank.
• Follow rated working load guidance for the material and size; do not exceed capacity.

Compatibility and best practices

• Pair carbon or alloy steel rod ends with coated hardware in dry or indoor settings; use stainless for wet or corrosive environments.
• When articulation is needed, consider a spherical rod end on the moving side and a solid rod end on the fixed side.

FAQs about Rod Ends

• What are rod ends?

    Rod ends (rod eyes or solid rod ends) are forged fasteners with a threaded shank and a solid eye used to create a strong, fixed connection point in linkages and fixtures.

• How do solid rod ends differ from spherical rod ends or Heim joints?

    Solid rod ends have a rigid eye with no bearing and are meant for straight, in-line loads. Spherical rod ends include a ball that allows misalignment and articulation.

• Are rod ends rated for lifting?

    Most solid rod ends are intended for linkages and restraint, not as primary lifting points. Only use hardware with a published Working Load Limit for lifting applications.

• How do I size a rod end?

    Match the thread size and direction, confirm shank length provides full engagement, and verify the eye I.D. fits your pin or shackle without binding.

• Do rod ends come in left-hand threads?

    Yes. Left-hand options are common for turnbuckles and adjustable links. Pair left-hand and right-hand ends to allow easy length adjustment.

• Which material should I choose?

    Use carbon steel for general duty, 4140 alloy for higher strength, and stainless steel for wet or corrosive environments.

• What is proper thread engagement?

    A practical guideline is at least one shank diameter of fully engaged threads in steel, or more for softer base materials.

• Rod end vs eye bolt — when should I use each?

    Choose a rod end for compact linkages and fixed connections. Choose an eye bolt when you need a lifting eye or a shoulder pattern for through-bolting and rated hoisting.

• How should I secure a rod end in service?

    Use a jam nut or approved locking method, align for straight loading, and recheck torque after initial run-in.

• What inspections are recommended?

    Check for bent eyes, cracks, corrosion, thread damage, and loosened jam nuts. Replace any component that is deformed or worn.

• Can I use stainless hardware with carbon steel rod ends?

    Yes, but consider galvanic corrosion in wet or salty environments. If exposure is severe, use stainless rod ends and stainless mating hardware.

• What pin size should I use in the eye?

    Use a pin that matches the listed eye I.D. and sits freely without forcing. Do not oversize the pin or pry the eye sideways.

All rod ends in this selection are machined and threaded.

Proudly Manufactured in the USA - Domestic