If you have ever been around an off-road build there is one key component in suspensions, steering, and links – the rod end. Having the right part installed could mean making it off the trail in one piece and having to fix something in the dirt.

We wanted to find out what makes these parts important, we had the chance to speak with Jeff Stacy with FK Rod Ends to find out more and see what they recommend for off-road applications.

FK Rod Ends JMX Series rod end with a teflon liner is ideal in the off-road world.

What type of rod ends are used in the off-road world?

Jeff Stacy: We recommend our JMX series of rod end due to its strength. This is a rod end that is made out of certified alloy steel, something that offshore rod ends can’t say. We recommend this rod end because of the abuse off-roading puts on suspension components.

FK Rod Ends is a big fan of using a PTFE (Teflon) liner on an off-road vehicle. This liner works as a lubricator and a wiper for the ball. With a liner installed the amount of force it takes to lock the ball up is raised considerable. Also with the liner working as a wiper it keeps the rod end from wearing out from the dirt and debris.

What type of off-road applications use rod ends the best?

JS: I would say a very serious street, off-road vehicle or an off-road only vehicle will benefit the most. The diversity of a rod end allows for so many different suspension systems your mind is really the only limiting factor.

New 6061 tie rods with the JMX series rod end attached.

What are the benefits of using a rod end instead of a bushing?

JS: A rod end will allow lateral and horizontal movement while a bushing only allows horizontal movement.

How do you know when it is time to replace a rod end?

JS: That is such a tough call. Unfortunately it is very difficult to know when a rod end is worn out. The best thing I can tell you is to replace them after a bad crash or when the ball gets lose in the rod end housing. The loser the ball the closer you are to having a problem.

Off-road vehicles can have upwards of 20 rod ends on their suspension, and every piece plays a part in making the vehicle run its best. We will be using the JMX series rod end in our long travel suspension build on Project Storm Trooper, so stay tuned for more updates as we complete the install.