If you’ve ever worked with tools, repaired machinery, or followed a torque specification on a bolt, you’ve likely encountered the units inch-pounds (in-lb) and foot-pounds (ft-lb). These measurements are essential when it comes to applying the right amount of force. But when they’re used interchangeably, confusion can arise.
That leads us to one of the most common mechanical questions:
Can you convert inch pounds to foot pounds?
The answer is yes, and in this blog, we’ll show you exactly how — with formulas, examples, and real-world use cases. Whether you’re an automotive technician, a DIY enthusiast, or a student, this guide will make torque conversion easy and reliable.
What Is Torque?
Torque is the rotational force applied to an object. It’s what you create when you use a wrench to tighten or loosen a bolt.
📌 Torque = Force × Distance
- The longer the tool (distance), the more torque you can apply with the same amount of force.
- Torque is usually measured in either inch-pounds (in-lb) or foot-pounds (ft-lb).
Inch-Pounds vs. Foot-Pounds: What’s the Difference?
Both are units of torque, but they differ by scale and application.
| Unit | Description | Common Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Inch-Pounds | Torque applied per inch of distance | Small fasteners, electronics, bikes |
| Foot-Pounds | Torque applied per foot of distance | Automotive, heavy machinery |
So, Can You Convert Inch Pounds to Foot Pounds?
✅ Yes, and It’s Easy.
You just need to understand the relationship between inches and feet.
📏 Conversion Ratio:
mathematicaCopyEdit1 foot = 12 inches
Therefore, 1 ft-lb = 12 in-lb
How to Convert Inch Pounds to Foot Pounds
✅ Formula:
iniCopyEditFoot-Pounds = Inch-Pounds ÷ 12
✅ Example:
Let’s say you have a torque wrench that reads 240 inch-pounds, but your torque specification calls for foot-pounds.
CopyEdit240 ÷ 12 = 20 ft-lb
Answer: 240 inch-pounds = 20 foot-pounds
How to Convert Foot Pounds to Inch Pounds
To go in the opposite direction, just multiply by 12.
✅ Formula:
iniCopyEditInch-Pounds = Foot-Pounds × 12
✅ Example:
15 foot-pounds =
15 × 12 = 180 inch-pounds
Why You Need to Convert Torque Units
🔧 1. Tool Compatibility
Many torque wrenches are labeled in only one unit. If the manufacturer spec is in inch-pounds, but your wrench is in foot-pounds, you’ll need to convert.
🚗 2. Automotive Repairs
Spark plugs, valve covers, and other components often list torque in inch-pounds, while suspension and drivetrain specs may use foot-pounds.
🧰 3. Preventing Damage
Over-torquing can strip threads or crack parts. Under-torquing can lead to loose bolts. Accurate torque matters for safety and longevity.
Conversion Chart: Inch Pounds to Foot Pounds
| Inch-Pounds (in-lb) | Foot-Pounds (ft-lb) |
|---|---|
| 12 in-lb | 1 ft-lb |
| 24 in-lb | 2 ft-lb |
| 60 in-lb | 5 ft-lb |
| 120 in-lb | 10 ft-lb |
| 180 in-lb | 15 ft-lb |
| 240 in-lb | 20 ft-lb |
| 300 in-lb | 25 ft-lb |
| 360 in-lb | 30 ft-lb |
Real-Life Examples of Torque Conversion
🔩 Example 1: Bicycle Maintenance
Your bike’s brake bolts call for 80 inch-pounds, but your torque wrench only reads in foot-pounds.
CopyEdit80 ÷ 12 = 6.67 ft-lb
Set your wrench to 6.7 foot-pounds for precise tightening.
🚘 Example 2: Engine Work
An engine manual specifies 144 in-lb for a valve cover.
CopyEdit144 ÷ 12 = 12 ft-lb
Set your tool to 12 foot-pounds for proper installation.
Digital Tools for Torque Conversion
Doing math in the garage or workshop isn’t always convenient. Thankfully, there are online tools that can do the job instantly.
✅ Try GramsToPounds.io
While primarily a weight conversion tool, GramsToPounds.io is expanding to include torque conversions as part of its toolset.
Coming soon:
- Inch-pounds to foot-pounds converter
- Foot-pounds to inch-pounds converter
- Mobile-friendly and fast
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ 1. Forgetting to Divide by 12
Don’t mistake inch-pounds for foot-pounds — it could result in 12x too much torque.
❌ 2. Using the Wrong Tool
A wrench rated for foot-pounds is not accurate for small inch-pound values.
❌ 3. Rounding Too Early
Always round to at least one decimal for precision.
How to Choose the Right Torque Wrench
| Task | Best Unit | Tool Type |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics, drones | Inch-pounds | Small torque screwdriver |
| Bicycles, light auto | Inch-pounds | ¼-inch drive torque wrench |
| Cars, trucks | Foot-pounds | ⅜ or ½-inch drive wrench |
| Heavy machinery | Foot-pounds | Industrial-grade wrenches |
Always match the unit of your tool with the specification, or convert if needed.
FAQs: Can You Convert Inch Pounds to Foot Pounds?
❓ Can you convert inch pounds to foot pounds?
Yes. Just divide inch-pounds by 12.
Example: 120 in-lb ÷ 12 = 10 ft-lb
❓ Is 1 foot-pound equal to 12 inch-pounds?
Yes. 1 foot = 12 inches, so torque follows the same ratio.
❓ Are inch-pounds more accurate for small components?
Yes. They offer finer resolution for low-torque settings like electronics or bicycles.
❓ Can digital torque wrenches switch between units?
Some models do. Check your manual for unit-switching capability.
❓ What happens if I over-torque?
Over-torquing can damage threads, deform components, or even cause part failure.
Summary: Torque Conversion Made Simple
To wrap up:
Can you convert inch pounds to foot pounds? Absolutely — just divide by 12.
Whether you’re working on a car, a bike, or an electronic device, knowing how to convert torque values ensures accuracy, safety, and proper function.
📌 Final Formula Recap:
- Foot-Pounds = Inch-Pounds ÷ 12
- Inch-Pounds = Foot-Pounds × 12