A variational approach has been employed to solve Reynolds' equation for a finite length partial journal bearing. The pressure, is obtained as a doubly infinite sine series and the load capacity can be expressed, for some bearings, as a simple sum of coefficients. Applications include a 60 degree, L/D = 0.5 partial are bearing and a L/D = 1.5 plain journal bearing for which both the half Sommerfeld and Reynolds' boundary conditions are employed.Presented as an American Society of Lubrication Engineers paper at the ASLE/ASME Lubrication Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, October 3–5, 1977