SAE J1708 to OBD2 16-Pin Truck Adapter Cable, 30 cm

This adapter converts the SAE J1708 socket found on older trucks and buses into the 16-pin OBD2 plug that today’s scan tools expect. It is a 30 cm lead with a moulded vehicle connector on one end and a standard 16-pin male plug on the other, so a modern reader can be plugged into a vehicle that predates OBD2.

The 16-pin side does not carry every pin: only the lines used for J1708 / J1587 communication plus the required power and ground are connected. That is deliberate — OBD2 covers several protocols and no single vehicle uses them all — but it does mean you should compare the pin assignment with your scanner’s requirements before ordering. If your tool needs a pin we do not populate, tell us and we will build it.

Key features

• Converts an SAE J1708 truck socket to a 16-pin OBD2 plug
• 30 cm lead, short enough to stay out of the way in the cab
• Moulded flame-retardant shells with strain relief
• Rated for -30 to 80 °C, for cab and engine-bay use
• Materials meet RoHS requirements

Specifications

Typical applications

• Reading fault codes on pre-OBD2 trucks and buses
• Connecting fleet telematics units to legacy vehicles
• Workshop diagnostics on mixed-age fleets
• Bench testing of J1708 equipment

Custom and OEM options

Pin assignment, lead length, connector type and jacket colour can all be adapted, and your logo can be printed on the moulded shell. Stock builds start from 100 pcs per model and custom wiring from 500 pcs, with samples approved before mass production.

FAQ

Will it work with any OBD2 scanner?
It works with a scanner that can read J1708 / J1587 over the pins we populate. Many handheld OBD2-only tools cannot read J1708 at all, so confirm this with the tool maker first.

Can you supply a longer lead?
Yes, custom lengths are built to order.

Samples, packing options, payment terms and warranty conditions are set out in How to Order and Delivery Information.