# Torque Converter

Free torque converter. Convert between newton-meters, foot-pounds, inch-pounds, kilogram-force meters, and other torque units instantly.

## What this calculates

Convert between all common torque units including newton-meters, foot-pounds, inch-pounds, and kilogram-force meters. Essential for automotive, engineering, and mechanical applications.

## Inputs

- **Value** — min 0
- **From** — options: Newton-meter (N·m), Kilonewton-meter (kN·m), Foot-pound (ft·lbf), Inch-pound (in·lbf), Kilogram-force meter (kgf·m), Kilogram-force cm (kgf·cm), Dyne-centimeter (dyn·cm), Ounce-force inch (ozf·in)
- **To** — options: Newton-meter (N·m), Kilonewton-meter (kN·m), Foot-pound (ft·lbf), Inch-pound (in·lbf), Kilogram-force meter (kgf·m), Kilogram-force cm (kgf·cm), Dyne-centimeter (dyn·cm), Ounce-force inch (ozf·in)

## Outputs

- **Result** — The converted torque value.
- **Conversion** — formatted as text — Step-by-step conversion explanation.

## Details

Torque is a rotational force that causes an object to rotate. It is measured as force multiplied by distance from the pivot point.

Key Conversion Factors

- 1 N·m = 0.7376 ft·lbf

- 1 ft·lbf = 1.3558 N·m

- 1 ft·lbf = 12 in·lbf

- 1 kgf·m = 9.80665 N·m

- 1 kgf·m = 7.233 ft·lbf

Common Torque Specifications

- Lug nuts: 80-100 ft·lbf (108-135 N·m)

- Spark plugs: 15-20 ft·lbf (20-27 N·m)

- Engine head bolts: 60-80 ft·lbf (81-108 N·m)

- Bicycle pedals: 35-40 N·m

Always use a torque wrench and follow manufacturer specifications to avoid damage.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: How do I convert newton-meters to foot-pounds?**

A: Multiply the N·m value by 0.7376. For example, 100 N·m = 100 × 0.7376 = 73.76 ft·lbf. This is the most common torque conversion, especially for automotive specifications that may be listed in either unit.

**Q: What is the difference between torque and force?**

A: Force pushes or pulls an object in a straight line (measured in newtons). Torque is a rotational force that causes spinning (measured in newton-meters). Torque equals force multiplied by the distance from the pivot point: T = F × d.

**Q: Why do automotive specs use both N·m and ft·lbf?**

A: European and Asian manufacturers typically specify torque in N·m (SI standard), while American manufacturers traditionally use ft·lbf. Many modern specifications list both units. Always verify which unit your torque wrench is set to before tightening fasteners.

**Q: What is the relationship between ft·lbf and in·lbf?**

A: 1 foot-pound equals 12 inch-pounds, since there are 12 inches in a foot. Inch-pounds are used for smaller fasteners where foot-pounds would give inconveniently small numbers, such as electronics screws or small engine components.

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Source: https://vastcalc.com/calculators/conversion/torque-conversion
Category: Conversion
Last updated: 2026-04-21