Rod End Bearing Threads: Metric, Inch, Left Hand and Right Hand

Quick answer: Specify whether the rod-end body has an internal (female) or external (male) thread, the thread diameter and pitch, and whether it is right-hand or left-hand. State the bearing eye bore separately: it is not the body-thread size. Confirm dimensions against the exact manufacturer drawing.

Female vs. male rod end threads

On a female-thread rod end, the threaded connection is inside the body; on a male-thread rod end, a threaded stud projects from the body. IKO's PILLOBALL catalog identifies PHS/PHSB as female-thread designs and POS/POSB as male-thread designs. These are that manufacturer's series conventions, not universal codes for every supplier.

Metric and inch threads

A similar nominal diameter does not prove the same pitch or thread form. For inch threads, provide the full designation, including series and threads per inch where known. For metric threads, state diameter and pitch. If unmarked, send a clear thread photo, measured diameter, pitch-gauge result and mating-part drawing.

Model-specific YWS examples

The YWS PHS12A female rod end page lists an M12 × 1.75 internal thread. The POS5 male rod end page lists an M5 × 0.8 male thread. These are specific examples; verify thread hand, eye bore, body dimensions, material and operating requirements for the exact offered part.

RFQ checklist

• Full model and manufacturer, including suffixes

• Male/female; metric/inch; nominal diameter and pitch/TPI

• Right-hand or left-hand thread

• Eye bore, body width, center height and mounting space from drawing

• Load direction, articulation, motion and environment

• Quantity, destination and photo/drawing of mating part

Frequently asked questions

Is the eye bore the same as the body-thread size?

No. They are separate dimensions; report both independently.

Does PHS always mean female and POS always mean male?

IKO documents PHS/PHSB as female-thread and POS/POSB as male-thread for its PILLOBALL series. Naming may vary, so verify the applicable manufacturer's catalog and drawing.

Can an inch-thread rod end be replaced by a similar-sized metric thread?

Not from appearance or nominal diameter alone. Verify thread form, pitch, hand, engagement and mating-part fit.

Request a quotation

Send the complete marking, measurements, application drawing and quantity. See the YWS quotation checklist, browse spherical plain and rod-end bearings, or contact YWS Bearing / request a quote.

Technical reference: IKO PILLOBALL catalog, official catalog. Product examples: linked YWS PHS12A and POS5 pages. This checklist does not establish interchangeability; use the exact offered drawing. Prepared by YWS Bearing Editorial Team. Source checked 9 November 2026.