If you are working on your car, you need to know how to set a torque wrench in inch pounds. Otherwise, you will have trouble completing your jobs. In this guide, we cover the benefits of the inch pound torque wrench and show you how to use it properly.
What Is An Inch Pound Torque Wrench? (How It Works + Benefits)
Before you learn how to set a torque wrench in inch pounds, it's important to discuss what makes this tool so valuable. This torque wrench is a smaller tool that helps you loosen or tighten screws, nuts, and bolts. It's a necessary tool for mechanics but also has other applications. With the proper torque wrench, you prevent under- or over-tightening bolts because the value is always precisely measured.
Torque wrenches are simple to use. Because of the clicking sound that is generated, you know precisely what torque you are working with. Also, torque wrenches aren’t expensive, so everyone can have one in their tool arsenal.
With the flexible handle included, torque wrenches are comfortable to use. Even if you are holding one for prolonged periods, your hands shouldn’t get tired. You also don’t need to be an expert when using one because the accurate measurements are simple to read. When the torque wrench is pre-calibrated correctly, you know that your measurements will be accurate.
Unlike a regular wrench, the torque wrench shows you exactly how much pressure is being applied. For this reason, you aren’t going to accidentally apply too much pressure and cause damage to the object you are working with.
The instructions to use a torque wrench are straightforward. If you have a click-type, you will place one hand on the handle, with the other on the pivot point. Rotate the wrench in the opposite direction. When you hear the clicking sound, you want to stop turning the wrench. This click indicates that you have received the desired amount of torque.
How To Set A Torque Wrench In Inch Pounds? (With Calculations & Conversion)
Learning how to set a torque wrench in inch pounds isn’t as intimidating as you might think. With your tool in hand, open up the handle. You will see a bolt located at the handle’s tip. Take this bolt out and spin it, moving counterclockwise.
This simple action allows you to unscrew the handle. You can undo its handle to get to the number ‘0.’ Be careful when working with the handle because it has an internal spring. If this spring were to break, the tool would be useless.
You may need to convert the measurement of your tool from foot-pounds when learning how to set an inch pound torque wrench. Every foot equals 12 inches and the opposite is true. This equation goes both ways. So, if you have a screw that measures 30 foot-pounds, you must convert this by multiplying 30 by 12 to get the inch-pound measurement. When you do this, you end up with 360 inch-pounds. You can also take the number back to foot-pounds by dividing the number by 12.
Here is the equation you will use:
Foot-pound measurement x 12 = inch-pound measurement
Here it is the other way:
Inch-pound measurement/12 = foot-pound measurement
With the appropriate measurements, you know how to set the torque wrench. Apply the correct figure, and you are ready to go.
However, the task of setting a torque wrench in inch pounds is much more difficult if you have a beam-type wrench. There’s no way to calibrate this type, so you must pay close attention to the dial while using it. Keep your eyes on that beam at all times.
If you will be doing these tasks often, you might consider investing in a digital torque wrench. With these advanced tools, you don't have to perform any crazy calculations because the equipment does it all for you. But, of course, these do cost more, so they aren't always the best option for people in need of a torque wrench only occasionally.
If you run into any trouble, you might be able to find the answer in the owner’s manual from the manufacturer. You can also find helpful videos online from most brands.
Inch Pound Torque Wrench FAQs
Can I use a foot pound torque wrench for inch pounds?
To convert the measurement, simply take your foot-pound torque number and multiply it by 12. This shows you how many inch pounds are needed. The opposite is true if you need to move from inch pounds to foot pounds.
How do you change a torque wrench to 80-foot pounds?
Turn the torque wrench setting until you get to the mark that is labeled “80.” Each of the settings is clearly marked for you to see. If you have a digital torque wrench, it should be even easier.
What is 200-inch pounds on a torque wrench?
If you want to convert 200 inch-pounds to foot-pounds, you must divide the number by 12. In this case, the foot-pound measurement would be 16.67 foot-pounds. Now, you can use either setting to apply the right amount of torque.
How do you measure inch pounds without a torque wrench?
If you don't have a torque wrench, it would be impossible to accurately determine the proper inch pounds for your application. For the cost of a torque wrench, it makes sense to have one on hand.
Conclusion
Now you know how to set an inch pound torque wrench. With this information, you will be tightening and loosening bolts to factory specifications without any hassle. Just imagine how much faster your jobs will get done and how much more accurate you will be.