120
in·lb
13.5582
N·m
1,920
oz·in
138.2549
kgf·cm
120
in·lb
13.5582
N·m
1,920
oz·in
138.2549
kgf·cm
The Foot-Pounds to Inch-Pounds Converter converts torque values from foot-pounds (ft·lb) to inch-pounds (in·lb) using the exact conversion 1 ft·lb = 12 in·lb. This conversion is mathematically exact because there are exactly 12 inches in one foot.
While foot-pounds and inch-pounds are both imperial torque units, they serve different ranges of application. Foot-pounds are used for larger fasteners and higher torque applications: wheel lug nuts, engine bolts, structural connections. Inch-pounds are preferred for smaller fasteners: machine screws, electronic components, carburetor assemblies, and precision instrumentation.
The dividing line in practice is roughly 10 ft·lb (120 in·lb). Below this threshold, mechanics typically reach for an inch-pound torque wrench or screwdriver. Above it, a foot-pound wrench is standard. Some torque wrenches display both scales, but dedicated tools for each range typically provide better accuracy within their rated range.
Understanding this conversion is crucial for reading service manuals correctly. Confusing ft·lb with in·lb — a 12× error — can lead to severely over-tightened (potentially cracked or stripped) or dangerously under-tightened fasteners. Our converter also provides the metric equivalent in newton-meters for international reference.
The formula is: in·lb = ft·lb × 12. This is exact because 1 foot = 12 inches, so foot-pounds × 12 = inch-pounds with zero error. For newton-meters: N·m = ft·lb × 1.35582.
Key conversion points: 1 ft·lb = 12 in·lb, 5 ft·lb = 60 in·lb, 10 ft·lb = 120 in·lb, 25 ft·lb = 300 in·lb. Many small torque wrenches max out at 150-250 in·lb (12.5-20.8 ft·lb), which is the overlap zone between in·lb and ft·lb tools.
Inputs
Results
5 ft·lb = 60 in·lb = 6.78 N·m
Inputs
Results
10 ft·lb = 120 in·lb ≈ 13.6 N·m
Exactly 12. This is an exact conversion since 1 foot = 12 inches.
Below about 10 ft·lb (120 in·lb), switch to inch-pounds for finer resolution. Most in·lb torque wrenches operate best in the 20-150 in·lb range.
A 12× error. Reading 25 ft·lb as 25 in·lb would mean applying only 1/12 the required torque — a loose, potentially dangerous connection. Reading 25 in·lb as 25 ft·lb would mean 12× over-tightening, risking damage.
3 ft·lb = 36 in·lb exactly.
Many do, but not all. Some wrenches display only one unit. Check the scale markings and verify units before use.
100 in·lb = 8.333 ft·lb (100 ÷ 12).
Manuals use whichever unit gives convenient numbers for the fastener size. Large bolts use ft·lb; small screws use in·lb. This prevents awkward fractions in specifications.
20 in·lb = 1.667 ft·lb. This illustrates why in·lb is preferred for small values — 1.667 ft·lb is an awkward number.
Quality torque screwdrivers are typically ±6% of indicated value. Click-type in·lb wrenches are ±4% at mid-range. Always use the tool within its rated range for best accuracy.
Generally no. Most ft·lb wrenches have a minimum setting of 10-20 ft·lb (120-240 in·lb), which is above the in·lb range. Using a wrench below its rated minimum gives inaccurate results.
Roboculator Team
The Roboculator Team explains calculations, planning tools, and practical formulas in clear language for real-life situations.
How helpful was this calculator?
Be the first to rate!
Torque Converter (General)
Torque Converters
Newton-Meters to Foot-Pounds Converter
Torque Converters
Foot-Pounds to Newton-Meters Converter
Torque Converters
Inch-Pounds to Newton-Meters Converter
Torque Converters
Newton-Meters to Inch-Pounds Converter
Torque Converters
Kilogram-Meters to Newton-Meters Converter
Torque Converters
