In order for the VAZ “Seven” to be driven not only conveniently, but also safely, the condition of the suspension must be periodically monitored. An important element in its design are shock absorbers, which can be replaced by every owner of this car.
- Purpose
Table: parameters of standard front shock absorbers VAZ 2107
- Shock absorber malfunctions
Oil leakage
- Body rocking
- Body roll
- Suspension noise
- Uneven or increased tire wear
- Plunging when braking
- Broken fastening
- Checking shock absorbers on a stand
Video: diagnostics of car dampers on a stand
- Selection of shock absorbers
Oily
- Video: replacing front end dampers on classic Zhiguli cars
- Bleeding oil shock absorbers
Which shock absorbers are better to install on a VAZ
Shock absorbers are the most important elements of the chassis and safety system of a car.
They ensure a smooth ride and comfortable ride, are responsible for the adhesion of the wheels to the road surface and balancing of the vehicle on the surface. Their serviceability is extremely important. For owners of VAZ cars, the problem of shock absorber wear is especially pressing. Driving on unimproved roads in the harsh Russian winter requires constant close attention to the technical condition of the car. And the problem of serviceability and wear of shock absorbers is one of the main ones here.
We will try to understand the question: what shock absorbers should be installed on VAZ cars, how often they need to be changed, and what to pay attention to during maintenance. We also offer a list of shock absorber models of imported and domestic production, which will be optimal for Russian cars.
What types of shock absorbers are there?
It is possible to install one of three types on a classic:
- oil;
- gas-oil with variable hardness;
- gas-oil with constant hardness.
As a rule, each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Standard shock absorbers are oil shock absorbers that come from the factory. This is the manufacturer's recommendation.
As for double-sided shock absorbers, they cannot be installed on a VAZ, because they cannot be secured in the traditional way. Drastic changes to the fastening system will be required.
Shock absorbers suitable for the VAZ 2107 can also be installed on other models of this manufacturer. The exceptions are 2104 and 2102 - longer and more powerful shock absorbers are installed on these machines.
Replacing front shock absorbers
To replace the unit, we will need a standard set of auto mechanic tools:
- keys;
- stand;
- a jack and a little patience.
Important!
When replacing front shock absorbers (as well as rear ones), remember that the replacement must be done as a whole pair, otherwise you will lose more on increased fuel consumption and a lot of problems associated with handling and road grip, which is not caused by a combination of shock absorbers of different brands.
Now let's get down to business
- The first step is to jack up the front of the car, remove the right front wheel and install spacers.
- Remove the rack fasteners. We dismantle the steering tip.
- We continue dismantling work, disconnect the brake hose.
- In order to remove the stand, you need to unscrew all the nuts.
- We tighten the spring.
- Next, unscrew the central nut and remove parts such as the spring, bump stop and dust protector.
Now all that remains is to study the condition of the shock absorber. If it cannot be repaired, then we ruthlessly replace the unit with a new one and reassemble it in the reverse order.
The same work must be done on the left front wheel so that the front shock absorbers are the same.
Choosing racks for a VAZ: top best
10th place: SAAZ
The products of the Skopinsky Automotive Aggregate Plant are installed on LADA cars from the assembly line. The devices perfectly stabilize the car on high-speed turns and withstand harsh operating conditions. The company's product range includes a large selection of oil-type and gas-filled models. The products of the domestic brand fully comply with the requirements of Russian quality standards and ISO 9001. When asked which racks to install on a VAZ 2114 from the budget segment, this option will be the most successful. However, buyers online complain about the short service life. When driving aggressively or on bumpy roads, the struts fail after only 1 year of operation. Advantages:
- moderate cost;
- meets strict standards;
- wide choice of modifications and standard sizes.
- there are a large number of fakes;
- low durability.
9th place: Monroe
The next representative of the list comes from the USA, however, it is produced in Belgium. The company's products are famous for their high-quality cases and high-quality fillings, which, at a moderate cost, ensure good demand among car enthusiasts. The model range consists of 25 varieties of shock absorbers and struts installed on foreign and domestic cars. Thanks to strict quality control, the company eliminates the possibility of defects or hidden defects by 99%. When asking which pillars are softer to install on a modern-generation VAZ, it is recommended to pay attention to the Reflex modification. This is a gas-oil version intended for use on asphalt. The average mileage to failure is 30,000 km, which is quite tolerable. If a user is willing to sacrifice comfort for durability, the Van-Magnum generation is a smart choice. The racks are designed for off-road use and are distinguished by their increased range and durability, which guarantees up to 50,000 kilometers of driving range. The only caveat is the need to carefully select and search for trusted stores - there are a large number of copies of dubious origin on the market. Advantages:
- The optimum ratio of price and quality;
- wide range of models;
- good strength;
- long service life.
- a large number of fakes.
8th place: Fenox
In eighth place is the company whose parts are most common on classic Lada car models. If the buyer is interested in the dilemma of which racks to install on the VAZ 21099 and similar ones, it is recommended to contact this company. You can also find optimal solutions for modifications 2101-07, 2109 here. The brand produces front and rear struts of good quality. Oil-type shock absorbers provide sufficient directional stability and handle small things well in the form of small holes and paving stones. Also, the parts withstand frost tests perfectly and function properly at temperatures down to -25 degrees Celsius. However, the models are not intended for driving on primers - under conditions of critical overload and heating, the seals quickly wear out. So, it will be better for rural residents to pay attention to the next applicant. Advantages:
- moderate cost;
- wide range of classics;
- good quality;
- few fakes;
- perform well in the cold.
- short service life;
- Can't stand dirt roads.
7th place: DELPHI
Stiff, racing shock absorbers presented on the domestic market by a British company. The brand is the main supplier of suspension components for GM conveyors. If the user is going to improve the suspension of the VAZ 2110, which struts to install, the choice is obvious. The company has created a line of shock absorbers of suitable sizes specifically for the Lada. The models use a modern damper system and synthetic oil of optimal viscosity. The combination guarantees excellent directional stability and stable behavior in high-speed corners, which will protect a fast motorist from running into a ditch. It also uses advanced alloys, which minimizes the coefficient of thermal expansion and creates the necessary stability during overheating. The other side of the coin is its inability to cope with bumpy roads and sections of dirt roads. Due to the reduced cross-sections of the bypass valves, the struts wear out quickly. The second negative factor is the complete lack of comfort - the hard suspension makes your teeth “chatter” in some situations. Advantages:
- excellent stability of the car on the road;
- withstands long turns at high speed with minimal roll.
- price;
- lack of comfort while driving;
- wear out quickly on bad roads.
6th place: BOGE
The next representative is quite a bit inferior to the competitor who took fifth place in the ranking. Positive reviews of racks for VAZ and other domestic manufacturers indicate good quality assembly and good driving characteristics of the products. This kit can replace the standard stabilizer struts on a Lada X Rey or Largus. The brand is a supplier of parts to the assembly lines of the Volvo and VAG automakers, which indicates high quality products and modern solutions. Among the general model range, the company has two lines of shock absorbers, produced in Lada sizes.
- Turbo-Gas are rigid and reliable struts designed for racing loads. They are not afraid of primers and can withstand prolonged heating or dynamic loads.
- Automatic – moderately tight and comfortable shock absorbers, designed for normal “every day” use. They stand out among competitors due to their good comfort and good handling.
According to sources, for the maximum effect of the parts, you will need to install a full set of 4 pieces. When steaming, third-party units can reduce the efficiency of the units. Advantages:
- noticeable improvement in control;
- stable operation under temperature changes;
- sufficient choice of modifications;
- great build.
- there are fakes.
5th place: BELMAG
A popular domestic manufacturer that supplies parts to the assembly lines of Lada and GAZ companies. In 60% of cases, such racks on VAZ 2112/2115 or Kalina are stock. The series series of shock absorbers is distinguished by good reliability and good performance. The racks are moderately soft and reliably hold the road. They also perform well on primers. Hydraulic shock absorbers adequately withstand critical frosts and the “impeccable” condition of domestic roads. A wide network of branded stores and partners ensures the necessary distribution throughout the CIS countries. Among the negative aspects, users highlight excessive softness - on the highway at a speed of more than 90 km/h, the car may sway. Advantages:
- good assembly;
- holds the road well;
- moderate cost;
- wide use;
- durable design.
- excessive softness when speed increases;
- there is a marriage.
When is it necessary to replace shock absorbers?
Both front and rear shock absorbers on the VAZ 2107 perform the same function. Despite this, these elements differ structurally. The main difference between these elements is the method of fastening, but we will learn more about this when we consider the process of replacing units.
The products in question need replacement in the following cases:
- When the mechanism becomes unusable, that is, it does not have the ability to cushion the car body and smooth out shocks. It is not difficult to detect a malfunction of this mechanism, because in this case it becomes not entirely comfortable in the car interior.
- Presence of oil leaks on the device. You can detect leaks even without removing the product from the car.
If you are convinced that the products in question need replacement, then it’s time to get down to business.
Replacing front shock absorbers on a VAZ 2107
First, let's look at what the process of replacing the front shock absorbers of a VAZ 2107 is. It is important to note that even if only one element has become unusable, it is recommended to replace them in pairs, or even better as a set. The replacement procedure is represented by the following steps:
- We recommend placing the car on a pit or overpass and then applying the brakes to the wheels. If there is access from below, then there is no need to use a jack. Otherwise, you will have to use a jack and wheel stands, which will be more labor-intensive.
- Work begins on removal from the engine compartment, that is, there is no need to jack up the front part yet, as this will complicate access to the upper nut of the product. To do this, you need to open the hood and find the product stem. There is a nut screwed onto it, to unscrew it you need to jam the rod itself with a special key. In the photo below, this wrench is indicated by the number “1”, and the number “2” is a regular wrench at “17”.
- After unscrewing and removing the nut, you need to remove the washer with the rubber cushion.
- Now you can jack up the front of the car, then remove the wheel and install the spacer. Otherwise, we go down into the inspection hole.
- We find two nuts securing the front device. This mount looks like this, shown below. Using a “13” wrench you will need to unscrew both nuts. This must be done carefully, since there are spring washers underneath. We recommend spraying them with WD-40 first, as they usually do not unscrew easily, and there is a chance of stripping the studs, which will require restoration work.
- After unscrewing both nuts, the unit can be dismantled. To do this, pull its bottom bracket, after which it will fall out.
- Using two “17” keys, you need to unscrew the nut that secures the bottom bracket of the device. This bracket must be screwed to the new product in the same way if it does not have it.
- Now you can begin installing the new element. Before installing the front shock absorbers, you must first extend the rod all the way.
- Initially, the device is fixed at the lowest point by attaching two nuts. After this, the cushion and washer are put on the rod, and then the nut is screwed in. If the car is on a jack, you will not be able to tighten the nut. To do this, you need to lower the car or load the suspension. After this, you can screw the nut all the way.
- At the bottom, you must finally secure the device with two nuts.
Signs of the need to replace shock absorbers on a VAZ 2107
Oil and gas-oil shock absorbers of the VAZ 2107 do not fail instantly. They gradually lose their properties. This is reflected in a deterioration in vehicle handling and an increase in braking distance.
It is easy to identify faulty shock absorbers: when driving over bumps or holes, the car shakes and sways. You can check the operation of the shock absorbers manually. To do this, just press on the wing of the car from above and release. The spring should straighten. If the body continues to rock, the shock absorber must be replaced.
Also signs of the need to replace the shock absorber are traces of oil leakage from it.
It is better to change shock absorbers in pairs - left and right at the same time.
Shock absorbers for VAZ 2101-2107
Shock absorbers for the VAZ 2101-2107 family (classic VAZ models), like all shock absorbers produced by the SS20 company for other cars, have several versions: “Standard”, “Comfort-Optima”, “Highway” and “Sport”. The presence of different settings options allows you to choose shock absorbers that suit your driving style.
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Applicability
- VAZ 2101
- VAZ 2102
- VAZ 2103
- VAZ 2104
- VAZ 2105
- VAZ 2106
- VAZ 2107
Advantages of SS20 shock absorbers for VAZ 2101-2107 (“classic”)
- the ability to select the characteristics “Standard”, “Comfort”, “Highway” or “Sport”;
- Stable performance under harsh operating conditions (due to larger fluid volumes and improved cooling) without compromising damping characteristics;
- increased resource;
- extended operating temperature range from -50˚С to +100˚С;
- 1 year unlimited mileage warranty;
- stability of characteristics and quiet operation of shock absorbers throughout their entire service life.
Guarantee
- Description
- Buy
Shock absorbers VAZ 2101-2107 (these VAZ models have a more common name - “ classic ”), like all shock absorbers produced by the SS20 company for other cars, have several versions: “Comfort”, “Highway” and “Sport”. The presence of different settings options allows you to choose shock absorbers that suit your driving style.
Front shock absorbers SS20 for VAZ 2101-2107
Rear shock absorbers SS20 for VAZ 2101-2107
The family of VAZ cars with a classic layout has earned a popular reputation as simple and fairly reliable inexpensive cars to operate. At the same time, the level of driving comfort and smooth ride also contributed to the love of our compatriots for the VAZ classics. But over the years that the family remained on the assembly line, both the speed of movement and the requirements for car handling increased. At the moment, we can say with confidence that in modern conditions, when driving both in the city and on the highways, cars of the VAZ 2101-2107 family are forced to reduce speed and do not provide an acceptable level of controllability and stability at speeds of even 90 km/h. Therefore, when developing and testing shock absorbers 2101-2107, the main attention was paid to improving the car’s handling while maintaining maximum comfort, and improving the car’s behavior on country roads.
The shock absorber housing for the “classic” SS20 production was enlarged compared to standard shock absorbers, which made it possible not only to increase the oil volume, but also to use larger diameter pistons, which significantly reduced the specific loads on the elements of the valve system and increased their service life. Pistons with a “skirt” are used, providing excellent sealing and stability of shock absorber characteristics with an extended service life. The lower and upper silent blocks of the front shock absorber have an original design that is superior to the factory shock absorber for the VAZ 2101-2107 family in terms of reliability and damping capacity.
Thus, the shock absorber for the “classics” (VAZ 2101, 2102, 2103, 2104, 2105, 2106, 2107) of the SS20 brand is a reliable design that will allow you to forget about a number of problems that arise when operating a car with standard shock absorbers. In addition, with SS20 products you will protect yourself from counterfeits: all SS20 products have branded packaging, stickers, and dot markings.
The main sign of a malfunction, as with any other suspension element, is a dull knock in one of the parts of the car. It may get worse over time. A knock indicates that the shock absorber has been broken. If it is oily, you will see on the lift that it has leaked. Basically, shock absorbers on the VAZ-2107 last 70-100 thousand kilometers, depending on the condition of the roads and driving style.
To perform this operation we need a set of tools. If these are rear shock absorbers of a VAZ-2107, you will need a 19 mm wrench and a head with a knob of the same size. For the front shock absorbers you will need a more extensive set. These are 6, 13 and 17 millimeter keys. We will also need a jack, stops, a hammer, a wooden block, a metal brush and universal lubricant (VD-40 or “liquid wrench”).
Types of shock absorbers
According to their design, shock absorbers are divided into two types: single- and double-tube. According to the type of filling, shock absorbers are divided into hydraulic (oil) and gas-oil and gas. The operating principle of all shock absorbers is similar. All of them are designed to reduce the amplitude of body vibrations caused by the operation of springs and the impact of road irregularities.
When deciding which shock absorbers should be installed on a VAZ 2107, you need to know how different types of products differ.
Oil shock absorbers are ideal for a relaxed driving style. They are “softer” than gas-oil ones, therefore they provide greater comfort in the cabin when driving over uneven surfaces and do not transfer excessive load to body elements. Another advantage of hydraulic shock absorbers is the price, which is much lower than that of gas-oil and gas shock absorbers.
Gas-oil shock absorbers are stiffer, but they provide good handling on bad roads and when cornering. But they transfer more load to the body, so when installing them, the body elements of the “seven” should be strengthened and an anti-roll bar should be installed in the rear suspension. Twin-pipe gas-oil shock absorbers are distinguished by a special cylinder geometry, in which the piston moves more easily, and the shock absorber itself operates softly, like oil ones.
Gas shock absorbers (“struts”) on the VAZ 2107 are installed much less frequently. The gas filling them has a high compression resistance. Therefore, gas shock absorbers are very hard, and driving with them on uneven roads is less comfortable. The advantages of shock absorbers of this type are high reliability, long service life and excellent vehicle controllability at high speeds, when other types of shock absorbers do not have time to “work out” irregularities.
