This SAE Standard describes a procedure for the evaluation of operator seats which may be fitted to agricultural wheeled tractors per SAE J 1150 and/or earthmoving machines per SAE J 1057. This procedure evaluates only the vertical vibration performance and should not be considered a comprehensive seat evaluation procedure.

The purpose of this document is to establish a method for testing the seats of agricultural tractors and earthmoving machines. The method recognizes that the vibration performance of operator seats for agricultural tractors and earthmoving machines depends on the characteristics of the seat, the machine, and the operator. As such, this document describes a procedure utilizing human subjects (operators) for measuring and evaluating seat performance in the laboratory as a function of machine type and operator weight.

Agricultural wheeled tractors and earthmoving machines having similar vibration spectra are grouped into defined classes with corresponding test vibration input spectra specified for each class in SAE J 1385 and SAE J 1386. The specified power spectral density at the seat mounting base defines the response required from the vibration test stand during a given laboratory seat test.

The method measures the frequency weighted root mean square acceleration transmitted to the operator at the seat/buttock interface (whole body vibration) during simulated machine vibration on a vibration test stand or ride simulator. Performance for all applications within a defined class requires tests with subjects of specified weights.

Superseded by ISO 5007.