ft-lbs to in-lbs Converter
Convert foot-pounds (ft·lb) to inch-pounds (in·lb) instantly with exact mechanical leverage math: in·lb = ft·lb × 12.
Bidirectional Imperial Torque Converter
Exact formula: ft·lb = in·lb ÷ 12 • 1 in·lb = 0.08333 ft·lb
in-lbs to ft-lbs Quick Conversion Table
Quick reference values for automotive assembly, valve covers, transmission pans, and small engine fasteners.
| Inch-Pounds (in·lb) | Foot-Pounds (ft·lb) | Newton-Meters (N·m) | Recommended Tool Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 in·lb | 1.00 ft·lb | 1.36 N·m | 1/4" Torque Screwdriver |
| 24 in·lb | 2.00 ft·lb | 2.71 N·m | 1/4" Precision Driver |
| 36 in·lb | 3.00 ft·lb | 4.07 N·m | 1/4" Micrometer Clicker |
| 48 in·lb | 4.00 ft·lb | 5.42 N·m | 1/4" Micrometer Clicker |
| 60 in·lb | 5.00 ft·lb | 6.78 N·m | 1/4" Drive Clicker |
| 84 in·lb | 7.00 ft·lb | 9.49 N·m | 1/4" Drive Clicker |
| 108 in·lb | 9.00 ft·lb | 12.20 N·m | 1/4" or 3/8" Drive |
| 120 in·lb | 10.00 ft·lb | 13.56 N·m | 3/8" Drive Clicker |
| 180 in·lb | 15.00 ft·lb | 20.34 N·m | 3/8" Drive Clicker |
| 240 in·lb | 20.00 ft·lb | 27.12 N·m | 3/8" Drive Clicker |
| 300 in·lb | 25.00 ft·lb | 33.90 N·m | 3/8" Drive Clicker |
| 360 in·lb | 30.00 ft·lb | 40.67 N·m | 3/8" Drive Clicker |
| 480 in·lb | 40.00 ft·lb | 54.23 N·m | 3/8" Drive Clicker |
| 600 in·lb | 50.00 ft·lb | 67.79 N·m | 3/8" or 1/2" Drive |
Common Fastener Torque Specifications
| Application | Inch-Pounds | Foot-Pounds | Drive Size | Engineering Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive Transmission Pan Bolts | 84 to 106 in·lb | 7.0 to 8.8 ft·lb | 1/4" or 3/8" Drive | Over-tightening extrudes cork or rubber pan gasket |
| Engine Valve Cover Bolts (M6) | 70 to 88 in·lb | 5.8 to 7.3 ft·lb | 1/4" Torque Ratchet | Use inch-pound wrench to avoid stripping aluminum head |
| Engine Intake Manifold Bolts (Small block) | 132 to 180 in·lb | 11.0 to 15.0 ft·lb | 3/8" Drive | Follow multi-pass center-outward torque sequence |
| Bicycle Handlebar Stem Clamps (Carbon) | 35 to 45 in·lb | 2.9 to 3.8 ft·lb | 1/4" Precision Driver | Never use a ft-lb wrench on delicate carbon cockpits |
| Bicycle Disc Brake Rotor Torx (T25) | 53 to 55 in·lb | 4.4 to 4.6 ft·lb | 1/4" Torx Bit | Requires medium blue threadlocker (Loctite 243) |
| Rifle Scope Ring Mounting Screws | 15 to 18 in·lb | 1.25 to 1.5 ft·lb | 1/4" Torque Screwdriver | Over-tightening bends scope body tube and binds reticle |
| Rifle Action Screws to Stock | 45 to 65 in·lb | 3.75 to 5.4 ft·lb | 1/4" Drive | Crucial for bedding consistency and rifle accuracy |
| Spark Plugs (Aluminum cylinder heads) | 180 to 240 in·lb | 15.0 to 20.0 ft·lb | 3/8" Drive Clicker | Ensure threads are clean and dry before tightening |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you convert inch-pounds to foot-pounds?
To convert inch-pounds (in·lb) to foot-pounds (ft·lb), divide the inch-pound value by 12: ft·lb = in·lb ÷ 12. For example, 120 in·lb ÷ 12 = 10 ft·lb.
Why are there 12 inch-pounds in one foot-pound?
Because there are exactly 12 inches in one foot. Torque is calculated as Force multiplied by Lever Distance. A 1-pound force at a 12-inch radius produces the exact same rotational moment as a 1-pound force at a 1-foot radius.
What is the danger of mistaking inch-pounds for foot-pounds?
Mistaking foot-pounds for inch-pounds results in applying 12 times too much torque (a 1,200% over-torque error). Setting a torque wrench to 50 ft·lb instead of 50 in·lb instantly snaps fastener shanks, strips female aluminum threads, or crushes carbon fiber composite assemblies.
Can I use a 1/2-inch drive torque wrench for inch-pound fasteners?
No! Standard 1/2" automotive torque wrenches measure in foot-pounds (typically 20 to 150 ft·lb or higher). They are physically incapable of measuring below 10 ft·lb accurately. Always use a dedicated 1/4" drive inch-pound torque wrench for small fasteners.
How many inch-pounds is 15 foot-pounds?
15 foot-pounds equals 180 inch-pounds (15 × 12 = 180 in·lb).