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BuyBolt Torque Calculator
SAE and metric torque values with lubrication adjustments
Select fastener system, grade, size, and thread condition to calculate recommended torque in ft-lbs and Nm using live calculator tables.
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Fastener and measurement tools for torque work
Accessory picks for measuring hardware, handling material, and improving setup quality before final torqueing.
Starrett Digital Caliper
- Confirm bolt diameter and hardware sizing
- Useful for thread and washer checks
- Helps avoid size-based torque mistakes
Leather Shop Gloves
- Protect hands during hardware prep
- Better grip when positioning parts
- Useful around hot or sharp assemblies
Klein Screwdriver Set
- Useful for clamps, covers, and fixtures
- Supports controlled assembly workflow
- Complements torque wrench operations
DIYMAG 350 lb Lifting Magnet
- Move steel parts safely before torqueing
- Reduces awkward handling during setup
- Useful for shop fixture alignment
Heavy Duty Shop Storage Rack
- Keeps fasteners sorted by grade and size
- Helps prevent wrong-hardware mixups
- Improves repeatable assembly workflow
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How torque is calculated
This calculator uses grade-and-size torque tables and then applies lubrication reduction factors. It preserves the original live data tables for SAE grades 2/5/8/stainless and metric grades 8.8/10.9/12.9.
Lubrication multipliers
- Dry: 1.00x
- Motor oil: 0.75x
- Anti-seize: 0.70x
- Moly paste: 0.65x
- Thread locker: 0.85x
Converted Newton-meter output is calculated from ft-lbs using the same live conversion factor: Nm = ft-lbs x 1.356.
Quick torque reference
| Bolt Size | SAE Grade 5 (ft-lbs) | SAE Grade 8 (ft-lbs) | Metric 8.8 Approx (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4 in / M6 | 8 | 12 | 7 |
| 5/16 in / M8 | 17 | 25 | 17 |
| 3/8 in / M10 | 30 | 45 | 34 |
| 1/2 in / M12 | 75 | 110 | 59 |
| 5/8 in / M16 | 150 | 220 | 146 |
Use this chart for planning only. Final values should match your selected system/grade/condition in the calculator output.
When Spec Torque Still Fails — Diagnose or Choose the Method
If a bolt snaps, a joint walks loose, or the wrench disagrees with the chart, use Bolt Torque Troubleshooting. If you must choose between a torque chart and a torque-plus-angle (TTY) procedure, use Torque Spec vs Torque-to-Yield.
FAQ and related calculators
Why is lubricated torque lower than dry torque?
Lubrication reduces friction, so less applied torque is needed to reach the same bolt preload.
Can I use the same torque for SAE and metric bolts?
No. Grade systems and dimensions differ, so torque tables are system-specific and must be selected correctly.
Related tools
Torque only clamps what the threads can carry. If the hole strips or the fastener cross-threads before you reach spec, diagnose pitch and engagement first: Thread Pitch & Engagement Troubleshooting.