A ball/socket link end assembly includes a link opening formed in the link end. A portion of the opening forms a spherical inner surface. A pair of ball entry slots are formed in the link end. The slots are spaced apart and positioned on opposite sides of the opening, and extend only part way into the link end from one side thereof. The assembly also includes a removable truncated ball member with a spherical perimeter which matches the spherical inner surface. A clamp member is attachable to the link end. The clamp member is engagable with the ball to prevent removal of the ball from the link end when the ball is aligned with the entry slots. The clamp member is received in a recess formed in the link end adjacent to the opening.