Uniball Rod Ends for Suspension

Uniball rod ends (also called spherical rod ends or heim joints) are mechanical components with a swivel structure, used in applications requiring large articulation angles, precise movement control and resistance to vibration and overload. Our selection includes only FLURO rod ends – a German manufacturer specialized in high-performance spherical bearings for motorsport, industry, automation, and special vehicles.

FLURO Rod Ends – Precision and Durability

FLURO products guarantee dimensional accuracy, repeatability, and material strength. Available types include EA, EA-D, EA-2RS (sealed versions), GALRS, GARSW, GIS, GILXSW, and GILRSW. Depending on the version, they offer:

• steel or stainless steel construction (e.g. FLURO-D-NIRO),
• PTFE-lined sliding surfaces for maintenance-free operation,
• 2RS sealing against dirt, moisture, and debris,
• radial and axial load capacity according to DIN 648 standards.

FLURO uniball rod ends are commonly used in high-performance vehicle suspension systems, steering links, stabilizer bars, actuators, and industrial machinery. They are also key components in adjustable suspension arms and camber kits in motorsport builds.

Spherical Bearings – How They Work

Spherical bearings used inside uniball rod ends consist of an outer ring and a spherical inner ring. They allow multi-axis articulation to compensate for misalignment and transfer dynamic loads. This design ensures long service life even under extreme use.

2RS Sealed Rod Ends – Off-Road Ready

Models with the 2RS designation feature double rubber seals to protect the bearing insert from dust, dirt and water. These sealed uniball rod ends are ideal for off-road, rally, drift, and industrial environments where contaminants or moisture are present.

Spherical Bearings for Arms – Thread Type and Direction

Depending on the suspension or linkage construction, we offer rod ends with:

• male or female threads – for external or internal mounting,
• right-hand or left-hand threads – allowing quick length adjustment in linkages,
• available sizes from M8 to M30x2,
• standard or fine thread pitch (e.g. M12x1.25).

Popular configurations include EA 30 D-2RS M30x2 right-hand, GALRS 20 R M20x1.5 left-hand, and GILXSW 16x1.5 female left-hand. Each model has a defined working angle and axial load rating, which should be selected according to the application requirements.

Uniball in Motorsport – Applications in Racing and Tuning

Uniball rod ends are widely used in drift cars, circuit cars, off-road vehicles, and RWD/4x4 platforms with modified suspension. They improve steering precision, eliminate play, and allow adjustment of suspension geometry to suit track or terrain conditions.

Thanks to their non-elastic construction (unlike traditional rubber bushings), they ensure direct force transfer without delays or deformation. Models such as GARSW, EA-2RS, and GILRSW are commonly found in push-rod systems, camber kits, and roll cage-integrated steering linkages.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

How do I select the correct uniball rod end for my suspension or linkage?

Key parameters to consider:

• Thread size (e.g. M12, M16, M30x2),
• Thread type: male (external) or female (internal),
• Thread direction: right-hand (R) or left-hand (L),
• Radial and axial load capacity – important in motorsport suspension,
• Working angle – critical for long-travel or high-articulation systems,
• Sealing – 2RS versions are recommended for dusty or wet conditions.

What is the difference between 2RS sealed and open rod ends?

2RS sealed rod ends feature rubber seals on both sides to block out water, mud, and dirt. They’re recommended for off-road, heavy-duty, or industrial environments where exposure to contaminants is common.

Open (non-sealed) versions offer full articulation range and lighter weight but require more frequent inspection and maintenance.

What’s the difference between left-hand and right-hand threads?

Right-hand thread (R) is standard – tighten clockwise. Left-hand thread (L) tightens counter-clockwise. Used in pairs, these allow quick length adjustment by rotating a center link (e.g. threaded tube), which is common in motorsport and adjustable suspension arms.

Where are FLURO rod ends typically used?

Common applications include:

• adjustable control arms (camber arms, toe arms, trailing arms),
• reaction rods and stabilizers in RWD/4x4 systems,
• hydraulic and pneumatic actuators,
• steering linkages in roll cage-equipped vehicles (e.g. buggies),
• industrial systems: construction equipment, cranes, valves, manipulators.

Are uniball rod ends a replacement for rubber bushings?

No – they are not direct replacements. Uniballs provide rigid, zero-play connections, whereas rubber bushings (silent blocks) absorb vibrations and offer more ride comfort. Uniballs are better suited for motorsport and performance builds, but may increase NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) in daily-driven vehicles.

How to tell if a rod end is male or female?

Male rod ends have external threads on the shank (e.g. EA, GARSW series).
Female rod ends have internal threads inside the body (e.g. GALRS, GILXSW series).
Both types are available in right- and left-hand thread versions and are often used in pairs within adjustable suspension systems.