This article summarizes the automotive industry’s 20+ years of experience with biodiesel, as documented in SAE standard J3050 (Issued 2014). While originally targeting the railroad and locomotive sectors, the insights are valuable for any diesel fleet considering or currently using…

SAE J1775-2015 provides a foundational description of bleed-air pneumatic system elements and identifies the parameters required for detailed specification development. This Information Report, originally converted from an aerospace Hydrospace Information Report (HIR 1559), is tailored for marine surface craft, air…

Bearing and bushing alloys play a critical role in the reliability and efficiency of internal combustion engines. Selecting the right alloy for crankshaft bearings requires balancing several competing properties—fatigue strength, compatibility, dirt embeddability, cavitation erosion resistance, corrosion resistance, and wear…

This article explores the now-cancelled SAE J4003-2019 standard, which provided procedures for benchmarking vehicle seats using the H-Point Machine II (HPM-II). While superseded by SAE J3103, the principles and practices outlined in J4003 remain foundational for understanding H-point determination and…

With the rapid adoption of lithium-ion batteries in automotive and industrial applications, the need for robust storage safety has become critical. The SAE J3235-2023 recommended practice addresses the unique hazards associated with storing these high-energy systems, providing mitigation strategies, failure…

Proper lubrication is critical for the longevity and efficiency of automotive axles and manual transmissions. SAE J308 2022, an SAE Information Report, provides a comprehensive overview of the performance characteristics required for modern gear lubricants. This article distills key insights…

Battery pack vents are critical components in the safety architecture of automotive lithium-ion battery systems. They serve dual purposes: enabling pressure equalization between the pack interior and the environment during normal operation, and providing emergency degassing of cell vent gases…

Battery thermal management is critical for performance, safety, and longevity of traction batteries in electric and hybrid vehicles. This article surveys key concepts from SAE J3073-2016, covering passive and active air cooling systems, design considerations, and engineering insights. Why Battery…

SAE J581-2011 specifies test methods, performance requirements, and guidelines for auxiliary high beam lamps—also known as auxiliary driving lamps—that are used to supplement the high beam of standard headlamp systems. This stabilized standard reflects mature technology and is a key…

🛠️ Note: this article focuses on engineering interpretation, not clause-by-clause translation. The SAE J699 Recommended Practice provides engineers and facility designers with a reference set of average dimensions for motor vehicles to assist in the design of docking facilities. Originally…

The SAE J43-2003 Recommended Practice provides a standardized method for determining maximum front and rear axle load ratings for industrial wheel loaders and backhoe loaders. Although cancelled due to limited demand, this document serves as a reference for consistent load…

This article provides an overview of the remanufacturing procedures for automotive starter solenoids as outlined in SAE J2242 (2008). Although the standard is now designated as noncurrent due to a loss of committee expertise, its recommendations serve as a critical…

Clear and consistent terminology is the foundation of effective engineering communication. The SAE J645 standard, revised in 2022, provides a comprehensive set of definitions for automotive transmissions, transaxles, and electrified transmissions. This updated recommended practice reflects the rapid evolution of…

Although antiquated in design compared to today’s serpentine belt drives, V-belts remain common in many emerging markets. The SAE J637-2012 standard, stabilized in 2012, serves as a critical reference for classical automotive V-belt drive systems. It provides dimensional and performance…

Introduced in 1950 and revised in 2021, SAE J673 remains an essential recommended practice for specifying safety glazing materials in motor vehicles. It provides guidance on definitions, dimensional tolerances, and practical considerations for glass, plastic, and glass-plastic combinations. This article…

The SAE J2241 standard (now noncurrent) provides thorough guidelines for remanufacturing starter drive assemblies for automobiles and light trucks. These recommended practices promote consistency in reliability, durability, and safety for rebuilt starters. The following sections outline the critical steps, specifications,…

Remanufacturing automotive starters is a cost-effective alternative to replacement, provided that the core is suitable and the procedures follow established standards. SAE J2073 (Noncurrent, 2008) provides minimum recommended guidelines for light-duty starter remanufacturing to promote consistent reliability, durability, and safety.…