torque conversion dilemma

**tataspeedy** · 02-27-2009, 03:47 PM

Doing a head gasket on '97 Cheyenne, 4.3L vortec, and instructions for torque specs go from initial foot-pound setting to an additional 55 - 65 - 75 degree (?) tightening. The tool they use cost a lot more than this truck is worth. What happened to trusty old-fashioned inch/foot pound torque wrench anyhow? Does anyone know how to convert these degree settings to inch/foot pounds?

**blazerman** · 02-27-2009, 03:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tataspeedy

Doing a head gasket on '97 Cheyenne, 4.3L vortec, and instructions for torque specs go from initial foot-pound setting to an additional 55 - 65 - 75 degree (?) tightening. The tool they use cost a lot more than this truck is worth. What happened to trusty old-fashioned inch/foot pound torque wrench anyhow? Does anyone know how to convert these degree settings to inch/foot pounds?

when i did mine it was in.lbs.

**Diesel** · 02-27-2009, 03:56 PM

No you can not convert them to foot pounds and most modern engines use the torque to yield system so you either have to pony up for a gauge/fancy tq wrench or you can mark the bolt heads with a sharpie and eyeball them fairly accurately to the correct degree.

**tataspeedy** · 02-27-2009, 03:59 PM

I think the next time I go to do someone a favor, I'll check out the manual first to see what is in store for a particular repair. Frankly, these newer vehicles are not treat. Thanks for the input, Truckman.

**tataspeedy** · 02-27-2009, 04:00 PM

Thank you too, Diesel.

**DaveDanger** · 04-26-2010, 10:47 PM

I ran into this in several places on my 96 4.3L Vortec as well. What I *believe* I have worked out is a method of accomplishing a "degree torque".

I obtained a simple plastic protractor type degree wheel with a movable arm, almost like the hand on a clock. I place the protractor on the pivot point of my ratchet or breaker-bar, with the zero point lined up with the existing handle. I then rotate the handle to the desired degree position indicated on the protractor face.

It's basically a visual method of measuring the degrees desired, that seems to be relatively accurate. It seems to have been effective for my purposes.