What is a clevis joint?
A clevis joint is a mechanical linkage component that enables angular or pivoting movement between two parts. It is made up of a U-shaped piece called the clevis, a pin (often called a clevis pin), and a mating part such as a rod with an eye that fits into the clevis. The clevis has holes on either side through which the pin passes, securing the mating part and allowing it to rotate around the axis of the pin. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look, exploring:
What is the purpose of a clevis?
What is a clevis pin?
Types of clevis joints
Types of clevis pins
How is a clevis and pin used? Applications & industries
Summary: advantages & benefits
What is the purpose of a clevis?
A clevis joint is widely used in mechanical and structural applications where controlled movement is needed. The simplicity of the design makes clevis joints easy to install and maintain, while their robust structure allows them to handle significant loads and repeated motion.
Although they allow rotation around one axis, clevis joints do not permit movement in other directions, which limits their use in systems requiring multi-axis flexibility. However, for applications needing reliable, low-complexity articulation with limited angular motion, clevis joints are highly effective.
For multi-directional movement, you may want to explore ball joints or Rod Ends, which provide a wider range of motion in more dynamic systems. To learn more, see What are automation ball and socket joints?
What is a clevis pin?
A clevis pin fastens components within a clevis joint. It’s typically a cylindrical metal rod with a head on one end and a hole near the other end for a cotter pin, split pin, or clip. This design keeps the parts securely connected but also makes it easy to take apart and reassemble when needed.
In a clevis joint, the clevis pin passes through the two forks of the clevis and through a corresponding hole in the mating component. Once in place, the retaining pin or clip is inserted through the hole at the non-headed end of the clevis pin to stop it from sliding out.
A clevis pin is one example of an industrial pin. Our experts explain what you need to know in our Guide to industrial fastener pins.
Browse our range of clevis joints & pins
Types of clevis joints
Our range of clevis joints are designed for easy installation and adjustment, making them a practical choice for both new builds and maintenance tasks.
Clevis joints
Clevis joints, also known as fork ends or yokes, are U-shaped connectors designed to join two rods or shafts, allowing for tractive or linear movement. The mating part fits between the forks and is secured in place with a clevis pin, forming a strong and reliable coupling.
Clevis and pin
Clevis joints with pins are a type of coupling where the mating component fits between the forked ends and is secured by a clevis pin. This creates a U-shaped connection between two rods or shafts, allowing for controlled tractive or linear movement.
To maintain stability under load, the clevis pin is secured with a washer and cotter pin, preventing it from coming loose during operation. When needed, the joint can be easily disassembled by removing the cotter pin, allowing for maintenance such as inspection, lubrication, or replacement—helping to ensure long-term durability and performance.
Clevis joints with retention clips
These couplings create a U-shaped link between two rods or shafts, making them ideal for handling linear or pulling forces. The connecting piece fits snugly between the forked arms and is secured with a retention clip, keeping the assembly compact, stable, and easy to maintain.
The clevis retention clip locks around the base of the clevis, preventing accidental disconnection while enabling quick, tool-free installation and removal. This makes maintenance simple and efficient.
Types of clevis pins
Our clevis pins come in two main styles, headed and straight shank. The most common type is the headed. Each designed to meet different mechanical and assembly needs.
Clevis pins with hole
Designed to slot through a clevis joint and hold components together while allowing them to pivot. The head stops the pin from sliding all the way through, keeping it securely in place.
They’re tough, long-lasting, and resistant to corrosion, which makes them a reliable choice in demanding environments. Thanks to their straightforward design, they’re easy to fit, remove, or swap out when needed. You’ll often find them in automotive, construction, and manufacturing settings—used in things like gear linkages, Carburettor setups, and control systems.
Clevis pins
These cylindrical fasteners have a flat head on one end and fit through the holes of a clevis joint to create a pivot point for angular movement and adjustment. The flat head acts as a stop, ensuring secure positioning during installation. Easy to insert, remove, or replace.
Clevis pin with thread
A variation of standard clevis pins, designed to create a secure but removable connection in mechanical assemblies. Instead of relying on a cotter pin, they feature external threads. This allows them to be fastened with a nut or similar hardware.
This threaded design offers a more secure and stable fit, reducing the risk of accidental loosening. As a result, they’re well-suited for applications where a more permanent and vibration-resistant connection is needed.
How is a clevis and pin used? Applications & industries
Their versatility makes them a go-to solution in systems where secure, adjustable connections are essential.
Industries
● Automotive – For Gear linkages and control assemblies.
● Construction – In heavy equipment and structural rigging applications.
● Manufacturing – In machinery, automation, and production systems.
● Agriculture – On tractors, harvesters, and linkage-driven implements.
● Heavy Machinery – For high load applacations.
Common uses
● Air cylinders: Often used as couplings at the end of pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders to allow controlled linear motion. Choose:
– Clevis joints
– Clevis joints with pins
– Clevis joints with retention clips
● Turnbuckles & wire rope Tensioning: Installed at either end for precise adjustment and secure tensioning in rigging or structural setups. Choose:
– Clevis joints
– Clevis joints with pins
– Clevis joints with retention clips
● Steering linkages & Control/cable systems: Especially in the automotive and heavy machinery sectors, clevis pins and joints allow for angular movement while maintaining alignment. Choose:
– Clevis pins
– Clevis pins with hole
– Threaded clevis pins
● Control mechanisms: Found in manufacturing equipment and robotics where repeatable pivot motion is required. Choose:
– Clevis pins
– Clevis pins with hole
● General linkage assemblies: Used in assemblies requiring quick disconnection or frequent adjustment, such as agricultural machinery or industrial rigs. Choose:
– Clevis joints with pins
– Threaded clevis pins
Summary: advantages & benefits
Clevis fittings offer a combination of simplicity, strength, and adaptability that make them perfect for a wide range of mechanical and structural applications. Whether used in dynamic linkages or heavy-load assemblies, they provide practical and long-lasting solutions.
● Easy installation & removal
Most clevis components are designed for quick assembly, often requiring minimal tools—or none at all, in the case of retention clip versions. This reduces downtime and simplifies maintenance.
● Secure, adjustable connections
Clevis joints allow controlled angular or linear movement while keeping components securely fastened. Threaded and pinned variants add flexibility for tensioning and alignment.
● Versatility across applications
Suitable for a wide range of uses, from air cylinders and turnbuckles to Gear systems and control linkages, across industries like automotive, construction, manufacturing, and agriculture.
● Strong load-bearing capacity
Made from robust materials like steel or stainless steel, clevis joints and pins can withstand high stresses, making them dependable in demanding environments.
● Resistance to wear and corrosion
Many clevis components are designed to perform in harsh conditions, offering long-term durability and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
● Maintenance-friendly
The ability to disassemble components for inspection, lubrication, or replacement ensures continued performance and extends service life.
Download free CADs
Free CADs are available for most solutions, which you can download. If you’re not quite sure which clevis fitting will work best for your application, our experts are always happy to advise you. Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast dispatch.
You might find it helpful to also check out our expert Guide to universal joints.
Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.co.uk or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application at 0345 528 0474.