How do I convert Nm to ft-lb?

Multiply the Nm value by 0.7376. For example, 150 Nm × 0.7376 = 110.6 ft·lb. To convert ft·lb to Nm, multiply by 1.3558.

What is the difference between torque and force?

Force is a push or pull in a straight line (measured in N or lbf). Torque is force applied at a distance to cause rotation (measured in Nm or ft·lb). Torque = Force × lever arm length.

What torque wrench setting should I use for lug nuts?

Typical passenger car lug nut torque is 80–120 Nm (60–90 ft·lb). Always check your vehicle's manual for the exact specification. Over-torquing can warp brake rotors; under-torquing risks the wheel coming loose.

What are inch-pounds used for?

Inch-pounds (in·lb) are used for smaller, more precise fasteners: electronics, small engine screws, bicycle components, and firearms. 1 ft·lb = 12 in·lb, so in·lb provides finer resolution at low torque values.

Is torque the same as power?

No. Torque is a force at a distance (Nm). Power is torque multiplied by rotational speed: Power (watts) = Torque (Nm) × Angular velocity (rad/s). Horsepower = Torque (ft·lb) × RPM / 5252.

Kilogram-force centimeter is a torque unit where a 1 kg mass at 1 cm from the pivot creates 1 kgf·cm of torque. It equals 0.0981 Nm. Often used in hobby servos and some Asian manufacturing specs.

Torque Converter

Convert torque between Newton-meters, foot-pounds, inch-pounds, and kilogram-force-meters. Uses the exact factor 1 Nm = 0.7376 ft·lb.

Convert From

Torque ValueEnter the amount to convert

Reference Value

100.0000 Nm

Normalized to Newton-meters

Foot-pounds (ft·lb)

73.7561

73.8% of reference

Inch-pounds (in·lb)

885.0732

885.1% of reference

kgf·cm

1,019.7162

1,019.7% of reference

kgf·m

10.1972

10.2% of reference

Torque Comparison Bar

Nm:

ft·lb:

in·lb:

kgf·m:

kgf·cm:

Quick Reference Table

Torque	Nm	ft·lb	in·lb	kgf·m
10 Nm	10.00	7.38	88.51	1.02
50 Nm	50.00	36.88	442.50	5.10
100 Nm	100.00	73.76	885.10	10.20
100 ft·lb	135.58	100.00	1,200.00	13.82

Planning notes, formulas, and examples

About the Torque Converter

The Torque Converter converts between Newton-meters (Nm), foot-pounds (ft·lb), inch-pounds (in·lb), kilogram-force centimeters (kgf·cm), and kilogram-force meters (kgf·m). These are the standard torque units used in automotive, mechanical engineering, and fastener specifications.

Torque measures rotational force — the tendency of a force to rotate an object around an axis. It's critical in automotive engineering (engine torque specs), mechanical assembly (bolt tightening), and machine design (motor output). The SI unit is the Newton-meter (Nm), while the US uses foot-pounds (ft·lb) and inch-pounds (in·lb).

The fundamental relationship is 1 Nm = 0.7376 ft·lb (or equivalently, 1 ft·lb = 1.3558 Nm). The converter shows the matching values for engineering calculations and torque wrench settings.

When This Page Helps

Automotive manuals mix metric (Nm) and imperial (ft·lb) torque specs. Fastener specifications use different units by region. This converter eliminates errors in critical torque applications.

How to Use the Inputs

Select the torque unit you are converting from.
Enter the torque value.
View the equivalent values in all other torque units.
Use Nm for metric fastener specs and ft·lb for US automotive.
Use in·lb for small fasteners and precision applications.

Formula used

1 Nm = 0.737562 ft·lb
1 Nm = 8.85075 in·lb
1 Nm = 10.1972 kgf·cm
1 Nm = 0.101972 kgf·m
1 ft·lb = 1.35582 Nm = 12 in·lb

Example Calculation

Result: 73.76 ft·lb

100 Nm × 0.7376 = 73.76 ft·lb. Also equals 885.1 in·lb, 1,019.7 kgf·cm, and 10.20 kgf·m. 100 Nm is a common head bolt torque specification for many engines.

Tips & Best Practices

Always use a calibrated torque wrench for critical fasteners — never guess.
ft·lb is used for larger fasteners (lug nuts, engine bolts); in·lb for smaller ones (electronic screws).
Torque specs often include a sequence (e.g., "80 Nm + 90° turn") for yield-type bolts.
Lubrication changes effective torque: a dry bolt requires less torque than specified for a lubricated one.
Never convert torque to power directly — power = torque × angular velocity.

Torque in Automotive Engineering

Engine torque output is the rotational force produced at the crankshaft, measured in Nm or ft·lb. A typical sedan engine produces 200–350 Nm. Diesels produce higher torque at lower RPM. Electric motors deliver peak torque from 0 RPM, which is why EVs feel so responsive.

Torque Specifications for Fasteners

Every critical bolt has a torque specification in the service manual. Head bolts, main bearing caps, wheel nuts, and suspension components all require specific torque values. The correct torque ensures the bolt stretches into its elastic zone for optimal clamping force without risking failure.

Torque Wrench Types

Click-type wrenches click when the set torque is reached. Beam-type wrenches show torque on a scale. Digital wrenches provide precise readouts. All need regular calibration (typically annually) for accuracy. Always reset a click-type wrench to its lowest setting after use to preserve the spring.

Sources & Methodology

Last updated: February 8, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Multiply the Nm value by 0.7376. For example, 150 Nm × 0.7376 = 110.6 ft·lb. To convert ft·lb to Nm, multiply by 1.3558.