Physics
Converting torque units
Vehicle specifications often quote foot pounds, so the conversion comes up constantly in practice.
The Formula
foot pounds = newton metres / 1.3558
Vehicle specifications often quote foot pounds, so the conversion comes up constantly in practice.
| Symbol | Meaning | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| N m | Newton metres | N m | Metric torque unit. |
| lb ft | Foot pounds | lb ft | Imperial torque unit used in vehicle manuals. |
What Each Symbol Means
N mN m
Newton metres
Metric torque unit.
lb ftlb ft
Foot pounds
Imperial torque unit used in vehicle manuals.
See It Worked With Real Numbers
A formula on its own does not tell you which number goes where. The how to calculate torque page applies this equation to a concrete case, shows every intermediate step, and names the mistakes that produce a wrong answer even when the algebra is right.
Where This Formula Appears
This equation is the working core of How To Calculate Torque, filed under Science. Every number the guide produces comes from substituting into this one line.