As to the durability of spherical rod ends I have a 1952 Ford 8N tractor. Its 3-point hitch mounts both my 5 foot mower and an 8 foot wide angle blade using spherical rod ends and they are holding up very well. The quality of the rod ends probably affects longevity.
Then by all means put them where ever you can on your vehicles. Just stay on the West Coast. My family lives on the East Coast, and I try to keep them alive and well.
