Tools & Fabrication - This may make me look like an idiot but...

...I am using an old fashion torque wrench and it kind big and clunky. For instance, when Im torqueing down my rocker arm bolts, theres not enough room to do it correctly. I tried a newer wrench but it was all in neuton meters(however that is spelled). Anyways, I would love a newer torque wrench that reads ft.lbs. Is there any such thing?? If there isnt, how do you convert neuton meters to ft./lbs.?? Thanks!!

You can convert from Newton Meters (Nm) to Foot Pounds (lbft)

http://www.onlineconversion.com/torque.htm

1 Nm = 0.7375 lbft

Nm is a metric unit and lbft is english. Most newer stuff is going to metric as that is the accepted standard around the world. The US is just slow in that respect as we still use mostly english units on things. I have a sears click torque wrench that has both sets of units on it. So you should be able to find some out there.

It's not so bad if you don't have to convert all the time.

i use a regular craftsmut 3/8 it works for all the bolts on the top of the motor.

most manuals are writen with NM now instead of ft lbs

Most quality torque wrenches are read in both scales. I have a 3/8 drive lb.in. click type Mac Tools wrench that is small (only about 12-14 inches long), it goes from 50-250 lb.in. Cost was about $200. I am a GM technician so I use it daily. I'm sure Craftsman makes a less expensive one for homeowner usage