The torque specification for many plastic intake manifolds is measured in what unit?

Many plastic intake manifolds have relatively low torque specifications due to the materials used in their construction, which can be more sensitive to over-tightening compared to metal components. Pound-inches is often the unit of measurement chosen for these applications because it allows for finer control over the applied torque. This is particularly important when dealing with plastic, as excessive torque can lead to cracking or warping of the manifold.

Using pound-inches helps ensure that technicians apply the correct amount of force without exceeding the limits that the plastic can tolerate. In contrast, units like pound-feet or inch-pounds may involve larger values that are not as precise for the delicate nature of plastic components. While Newton-meters is a valid torque measurement in general, pound-inches is more commonly specified in the context of plastic intake manifolds due to the preference for imperial units in some regions and industries.