Method for making a non-metallic, fiber reinforced rod end bearing assembly

A method for making a non-metallic rod end bearing assembly including a non-metallic rod end bearing to be interconnected with a control rod, said method including making said rod end bearing by the steps comprising:

• compression molding a first plurality of non metallic, resin impregnated fibers to form a non-metallic housing having a head with a central bore therethrough and an elongated shank coextensively connected to and projecting from said head to be interconnected with the control rod such that said fibers extend continuously and in parallel alignment along said shank and around said head, and forming a series of threads extending around said shank;
• molding a second plurality of non-metallic, resin impregnated fibers to form a non-metallic ball and supporting said ball for rotation within the central bore of the head of said housing;
• molding a third plurality of non-metallic, resin impregnated fibers to form a non-metallic race and removably locating said race within said central bore for receiving and supporting said ball for rotational movement;
• and
• forming means on said race to permit said race to be engaged and removed from said central bore to permit access to and removal of said ball.