A theoretical study of surface roughness effects on the elastohydrodynamically lubricated point contact is presented. The analysis is based on a Reynolds equation modified through flow factors determined by the statistical properties of the surface topography. An improved elastic deformation calculation is incorporated into the EHL numerical scheme. This revised numerical technique is used to get the complete solution for the rough elastohydrodynamic point contact, which takes account of side leakage. The system that has been investigated is an isothermal, Newtonian fluid with Roelands viscosity entrained in pure rolling. Results are presented demonstrating the effect of surface roughness parameters on film shape, pressure distribution, and rolling friction in a ball bearing.Presented at the 42nd Annual Meeting in Anaheim, California May 11–14, 1987