What is a rose jointed suspension and how...

[Jonathan]

does it differ from a standard suspension?

[Fran Hall RCR]

A rose joint is a spherical bearing
Rose is the English name brand much like Heim joint.
It's a more accurate way of attaching two components with minimal distortion and maximum adjustability.
All true race cars use this method for suspension as opposed to bushings.
Hope this helps..

[Peter D]

The fundamental difference between rose/hiem/spherical joint suspension & "standard" setups is that they are metal-to-metal - there are no rubber or urethane bushings to absorb minor road shocks & noise.

They are great for the track (no distortion or "compliance" from bushings), but they are harsh & noisy on the road.

Some replica manufacturers use a bit of each - eg DRB (GT40 Australia) use urethane bushings in the inner mounts of the rear lower A-arms, and a complete late '80's Corvette front assembly (top/bottom A-arms, uprights, brakes, hubs) with urethane bushings. This front end is a nice compromise - it is all alloy & a similar weight to other options, but is quieter on the road. It is still fully adjustable for castor & camber (by shimming the mounting of the top A-arm bearing rod, in/out(front &/or back), fore/aft).

Kind Regards,

Peter D. [img]images/icons/smile.gif[/img]

[Neal]

Does anyone know where I can get a couple of unfinished (not tapped) 3/8" female rod ends here in the states?

[Mark Worthington]

Neal, rod-end blanks are available in steel (C1035 and 4140 alloy) and in stainless (304 and 316) from McMaster Carr.