Torque

Torque is the twisting force applied to a shaft. The metric system uses the Newton meter (Nm). The Imperial system uses the inch-pound (in-lb) and the foot-pound (ft-lb). Vehicle manufacturers specify torque settings for key fasteners on the engine and wheels. You’ll need to follow the specifications or you could strip threads or break bolts. Torque is also an important concept when discussing engine performance.

Torque definitions

• A foot-pound (ft-lb) is the twisting force applied to a shaft by a lever 1 foot long with a 1 pound mass on the end.
• A Newton meter (Nm) is the twisting force applied to a shaft by a level 1 meter long with a force of 1 Newton applied to the end of the lever. (1N is equivalent to the force applied by a mass of 100

Torque conversions

• 12 in-lb = 1 ft-lb
• 1 in-lb = 0.08 ft-lb
• 1 ft-lb = 1.34 Nm
• 1 Nm = 0.74 ft-lb
• 1 Nm = 8.8 in-lb