Sep 2025
SAE J429
SAE J429 is a widely recognized standard that specifies the mechanical and material properties of inch-series fasteners commonly used in the automotive, construction, and related industries. The standard applies to bolts and screws up to 1-1/2 inches in diameter, ensuring consistent strength, durability, and performance across applications.
While the most frequently used grades are highlighted in summaries, the specification also includes several additional grades and variations such as Grades 4, 5.1, 5.2, 8.1, and 8.2, which address more specialized requirements.
SAE J429 Mechanical Properties of Inch-Series Bolts:
Grade |
Nominal Size (in.) |
Proof Load (psi) |
Yield Strength (min, psi) |
Tensile Strength (min, psi) |
Elongation (min, %) |
Reduction of Area (min, %) |
Core Hardness (Rockwell) |
Minimum Tempering Temp. |
1 |
1/4 to 1-1/2 |
33,000 |
36,000 |
60,000 |
18 |
35 |
B7 – B100 |
— |
2 |
1/4 to 3/4 |
55,000 |
57,000 |
74,000 |
18 |
35 |
B80 – B100 |
— |
Over 3/4 to 1-1/2 |
33,000 |
36,000 |
60,000 |
18 |
35 |
B70 – B100 |
5 |
1/4 to 1 |
85,000 |
92,000 |
120,000 |
14 |
35 |
C25 – C34 |
800°F |
Over 1 to 1-1/2 |
74,000 |
81,000 |
105,000 |
14 |
35 |
C19 – C30 |
8 |
1/4 to 1-1/2 |
120,000 |
130,000 |
150,000 |
12 |
35 |
C33 – C39 |
800°F |
|
Typical Chemical Limits & Markings — SAE Fastener Grades:
SAE Grade |
Typical Material |
Carbon (C) |
Phosphorus (P) |
Sulfur (S) |
Typical Marking |
1 |
Low to medium carbon steel |
0.55% max |
0.030% max |
0.050% max |
No grade imprint |
2 |
Low to medium carbon steel |
0.15 – 0.55% |
0.030% max |
0.050% max |
No grade imprint |
5 |
Medium carbon steel (heat treated) |
0.28 – 0.55% |
0.030% max |
0.050% max |
Marked with 3 radial lines |
8 |
Medium carbon alloy steel (heat treated) |
0.28 – 0.55% |
0.030% max |
0.050% max |
Marked with 6 radial lines |
Reference Standards for Nuts & Washers:
Nut Standard |
Washer Standard |
ASTM J995 |
Not Applicable |
Comparison of SAE J429 Grades with ASTM Specifications:
SAE J429 Grade |
Comparable ASTM Standard |
Grade 1 |
ASTM A307 (Grades A or B) |
Grade 2 |
ASTM A307 (Grades A or B) |
Grade 5 |
ASTM A449 |
Grade 8 |
ASTM A354 Grade BD |
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