This committee develops and maintains design and operation standards for freight cars and their components. It also serves as the oversight committee for the operations of the AAR's Braking Systems Committee, Wheels, Axles, Bearings & Lubrication Committee, Coupling System & Truck Castings Committee, and Specially Equipped Freight Car Committee. The EEC Committee Manager can answer questions concerning design and construction of freight cars, increased gross rail load, technical certification of new car builders, freight car performance issues, extended service cars, freight car rebuilds and modifications, and draft gear/cushion units. The EEC also has responsibility for Rule 88 compliance (including inspections and review of structural analysis).