Do I need a different wrench?

[Jonh Newman]

Bought a torque wrench for working on my car but it's calibrated in Newton-meters and all my repair manuals show foot-pounds. Do I need a different wrench?

[hydrogenn]

No need to buy a new wrench! Just use a Torque Converter to translate the specifications. Torque is rotational force, and it's absolutely critical to use the correct values when tightening bolts - too loose and parts can come apart, too tight and you can strip threads or break bolts. The converter handles Nm (Newton-meters - metric standard) and lb-ft (pound-feet or foot-pounds - imperial). For quick reference: 1 Nm equals approximately 0.737 lb-ft, so to convert from lb-ft to Nm, multiply by 1.356. For example, if your manual says to torque lug nuts to 100 lb-ft, that's about 136 Nm. Common torque specifications: car lug nuts are typically 80-100 lb-ft (108-136 Nm), oil drain plugs are around 20-25 lb-ft (27-34 Nm), spark plugs are 15-20 lb-ft (20-27 Nm). Critical tip: when using a torque wrench, pull smoothly and steadily - jerking motions give inaccurate readings. Also, torque in a star pattern (like tightening lug nuts) to ensure even pressure distribution. Store your torque wrench at its lowest setting to maintain calibration. Some digital torque wrenches can display both units with a button press, but if yours is analog, just keep the converter handy. I print out a conversion chart and keep it in my toolbox for quick reference. Proper torque is essential for safety, especially on critical components like wheels, suspension, and engine internals.