About this Torque Converter
Torque measures rotational force. It is critical in automotive repair and engineering to tighten fasteners (bolts, lug nuts) to the manufacturer's exact specifications. Using the wrong unit can lead to stripped threads or loose wheels. This tool converts between common torque units instantly.
Who this calculator is for
- Mechanics, cyclists, and DIYers setting torque wrenches from manuals that use different unit systems.
- Engineers and fabricators comparing fastener specs between metric and imperial documentation.
- Anyone cross-checking small in-lb values against larger ft-lb or Nm requirements.
When to use it
- Use it when a repair manual lists Nm but your torque wrench is set in ft-lb or in-lb.
- Use it before tightening wheels, engine components, bicycle parts, or shop fixtures to spec.
- Use it to translate legacy kg-m references into modern torque units.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the Torque Value.
- Select the From unit (e.g., Newton-meters).
- Select the To unit (e.g., Foot-pounds).
- The calculator displays the converted value.
Key assumptions
- Supported torque units are converted through newton-meters using standard accepted factors.
- Foot-pound and inch-pound values are treated as torque units, not as energy expressions used in other contexts.
- The tool converts target settings only and does not account for wrench calibration, lubrication, or fastener condition.
Accuracy and testing
Review formula sources, default test cases, assumptions, unit handling, rounding rules, and changelog for this calculator.
How this calculator works
Torque = Force × Distance.
* 1 ft-lb = 1.3558 Newton-meters (Nm)
* 1 Nm = 0.7376 ft-lb
* 1 ft-lb = 12 in-lb
Inputs explained
Newton-meter (Nm)
The standard metric unit for torque.
Foot-pound (ft-lb)
The standard US unit for larger torque values (e.g., lug nuts, head bolts).
Inch-pound (in-lb)
Used for smaller fasteners requiring precision (e.g., valve covers, bicycle parts).
Understanding your results
Always check your torque wrench settings carefully. Confusing ft-lb and in-lb is a common and expensive mistake (factor of 12 difference!).
Example scenarios
Wheel Lugs
Convert 100 ft-lb to Nm. Result: ~135.6 Nm.
Engine Spark Plug
Convert 20 Nm to ft-lb. Result: ~14.75 ft-lb.
Small Bolt
Convert 10 ft-lb to in-lb. Result: 120 in-lb.
Key Features
- 4 Major Units
- Bidirectional conversion
- Prevent over-torquing errors
Tips & Best Practices
- To convert Nm to ft-lb mentally: Multiply by 0.75 (roughly 3/4).
- Always set your torque wrench back to zero after use to maintain calibration.
- Kg-m is an older metric unit sometimes found in manuals for Japanese cars.
Glossary of Terms
- Torque
- A measure of the force that can cause an object to rotate about an axis.
- Fulcrum
- The pivot point around which a lever turns.