My torque screwdriver is set to 25 in·lb, but the assembly spec calls for 3 N·m. Is that close enough?

25 in·lb ≈ 2.82 N·m, which is about 6% under the 3 N·m spec. Unless the spec states a tolerance that covers 6%, bump the setting to about 26.5 in·lb (3 N·m) to match exactly.

I set my driver to 40 in·lb for a sensor bolt, but the manual's metric column shows 5.2. Did I overtighten?

40 in·lb ≈ 4.52 N·m, about 13% under 5.2 N·m, so you're under spec, not over. Increase to about 46 in·lb to reach 5.2 N·m.

Why would a manufacturer give both in·lb and N·m for the same bolt instead of just one unit?

Listing both units lets technicians use either an in·lb or an N·m tool without converting.

Inch-Pounds to Newton-Meters Converter

Enter a value to instantly convert between torque units.

From

Precision4 dp

1 Inch-Pound = 0.113 Newton-Meter

Key Formulas

Newton-Meter → Foot-Pound

ft·lb = N·m × 0.737562

Foot-Pound → Newton-Meter

N·m = ft·lb × 1.35582

Newton-Meter → Inch-Pound

in·lb = N·m × 8.85075

Inch-Pound → Newton-Meter

N·m = in·lb × 0.112985

Formula

N·m = in·lb × 0.1129848290

Some precision torque drivers read in inch-pounds (in·lb). When a metric assembly spec or service manual gives a value in N·m, converting from inch-pounds confirms the tool setting.

Source: NIST SP 811, Table B.9

Reviewed by the Convert Calc editorial team · Last reviewed: 2026-10-06 · see our methodology

Frequently Asked Questions

Real-World Examples

Example value. Use the torque in your assembly specification.

20 in·lb = 2.26 N·m

Example value. Set the driver to the value in your assembly specification.

50 in·lb = 5.65 N·m

A light-duty fastener torque spec.

35 in·lb = 3.954 N·m

Example value. Check the torque in your service manual before tightening.

100 in·lb = 11.3 N·m

nm to ft lb ft lb to nm nm to in lb kgf m to nm nm to kgf m

See This in Context

Mechanics