A self-adjusting rod end (10) comprising a rod end housing (12) including a connector portion (16), a ball housing portion (14) having an opening (18), and a race insert (26) disposed in the opening (18). A rod end ball (20) is disposed in the race insert (26) and a rod end tensioner (30) is positioned to apply a force (F) against an end of the rod end ball (20). The rod end tensioner (30) includes a clip portion (32) with a spring arm (34) extending therefrom, wherein the clip portion (32) includes a pair of tangs (38) positioned to engage the connector portion (16). The spring arm (34) includes a contact tip (36) confronting the end of the rod end ball (20).