Replacing the shock absorber and spring of the rear suspension on a VAZ 2113, 2114, 2115

Replacement of VAZ 2115 springs, old and new springs

Replacing the springs on the VAZ 2115 is necessary in cases where their integrity is compromised, in the event of mechanical damage or cracks, or in case of significant subsidence. All car owners should know that replacing a spring on a VAZ 2115 requires a pair replacement, that is, the springs of both the front and rear suspensions are replaced as a set (pair), regardless of the condition of the second spring, the same applies to shock absorbers.

How to change the front struts of a VAZ 2114, VAZ 2115

There are two options for dismantling the shock absorber strut: one allows you to avoid subsequent adjustment of the steering wheel alignment angles, the second allows you to quickly complete the work with more compact units, but after that it is necessary to adjust the steering wheel alignment angles. The difference is that in the first version we remove the strut together with the steering knuckle, without loosening the nuts of the lower and upper (adjusting) bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle. In this case, the amount of work is greater: we additionally disconnect the brake caliper and ball joint.

In the second option, pay attention! Immediately after replacing the struts, the vehicle requires mandatory wheel alignment adjustment. We proceed according to the first option, disconnect the steering rod, remove the brake pad guide with the caliper and the brake disc, remove the outer CV joint from the hub

We proceed according to the first option, disconnect the steering rod, remove the brake pad guide with the caliper and the brake disc, and remove the outer CV joint from the hub.

Shock absorber: its role in suspension operation

An automobile shock absorber is a mechanism in the suspension of a car that serves to partially dampen the swaying (damping) that occurs during movement or completely absorb it.

Giving the car a smooth ride, shock absorbers act as protection for the car's chassis from overloads when driving on uneven roads and rough terrain. In the suspension, the shock absorber acts as an element to increase its elasticity along with the spring and torsion bar.

Shock absorbers are divided according to their types:

• gas single-pipe;
• gas two-pipe;
• oil two-pipe.

On the VAZ-2115 model, standard oil shock absorbers are installed at the factory. Later, when using the car, owners often replace them with gas ones, depending on their driving style.

There are 3 types of racks with different characteristics. You need to choose them based on the roads on which traffic occurs. Oil (hydraulic) – quite elastic. Designed for drivers who prefer a calm, measured ride or frequent trips on unpaved roads.

Gas shock absorbers are characterized by higher rigidity, and, as a rule, they are preferred by motorists who practice an aggressive, highway driving style. Such shock absorbers (gas) prevent swaying that occurs at high speeds and turns. Gas-oil shock absorbers combine the advantages and disadvantages of both types.

Properties of suspension springs

When torsion bars on vehicles were replaced with springs, handling improved and suspensions became more convenient to maintain. Springs maintain the vehicle's ground clearance, reducing vibrations and shocks while the vehicle is moving.

To make the ride comfortable, you need to choose the right parts. If the technical characteristics are unsuitable, then the positive properties of the suspension will be reduced to zero. Therefore, it is important to consider the following parameters:

1. diameter - its increase affects rigidity;
2. number of turns - as the number increases, the rigidity decreases;
3. form.

Often, car owners strive to install stiffer parts in the suspension. This helps to increase the sensitivity of the steering wheel to the driver's control, but the grip on the road deteriorates.

Fans of a sporty driving style believe that, on the contrary, it is better to install parts with reduced rigidity. However, this suspension can create problems on country roads.

Let's take a closer look at which springs are best installed on a VAZ.

Do I need to change the spring?

A spring is a very durable element, but with prolonged use it can become unusable. Cracks appear, elasticity and length decrease. Diagnosing the condition is very simple:

1. Visually inspect the springs for cracks and deformations. If they occur, then the springs must be replaced.
2. Apply a load of 325 kg*s (or 3188 N). On export models of the car, the length will be 182 mm. For those produced for the domestic market, the length should be more than 201 mm. If less, then the spring must be replaced.

The springs that were installed on the VAZ-2115 are marked in the form of the letters A and B. The former are capable of working with higher loads. Be sure to install new springs with the same class.

Features that the best springs for a VAZ should have

Many people wonder what rear springs to put on a VAZ 2114?

There are several points that the owner of domestic transport should pay attention to:

1. Spring diameter. Affects the level of suspension stiffness.
2. Number of turns - the more there are, the lower the rigidity.

Hard rear products are liked by those people who require a good level of steering control. True, in this situation, adhesion to road surfaces decreases. That is, any option has its advantages and disadvantages. But all the same, you can always choose the appropriate type for any Russian model.

It is impossible to accurately answer the question - which springs to put on a VAZ 2114, since everything depends on their purpose, which is established by the indicated marking.

Sequence of work when replacing shock absorbers

Before dismantling the rear shock absorber of the VAZ-2115, it is necessary to remove the plastic plug from the rear strut cup and unscrew the nut securing the rod. To do this, a special key is used, which simultaneously fixes the rod and unscrews the nut.

After removing the nut and washer with a rubber cushion, jack up the car and remove the rear wheel to access the lower part of the mount

Using a 19mm open end wrench we secure the nut, and with a 19mm socket we unscrew the bolt, lubricating it with the previously penetrating lubricant, unscrewing and removing the bolt from the hole, and remove the rear shock absorber from its seating location. To do this, it is better to use a flat screwdriver, carefully prying the lower part. The strut body is moved to the side, moves down and the shock absorber is removed.

We take out the remaining rubber gasket inside the glass with the same screwdriver. We disassemble the old shock absorber, removing the spring, rubber bushing, cup, casing, bump stop, and then install these parts in the reverse order on the new strut.

When installing the spring in place, the last coil should take a position in the lower cup of the rear shock absorber such that the end of the spring does not extend beyond the boundaries of the cup. And after installing the rack, it should be oriented towards the wheel. Before installing the shock absorber, it is recommended to immediately put on the upper elastic band and, so that it does not change its location, attach it to the coils of the spring using insulating tape.

Upon completion of complete assembly, the rear strut is installed in the reverse order, the upper nut and the lower bolt securing it are tightened.

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Correspondence of spring markings to the model

When installing springs on a VAZ suspension, it is advisable to ensure their compliance.

• 2101 install on rear-wheel drive sedans.
• 21012 is tougher, made from a larger diameter rod. Installed on a VAZ with left-hand drive, with special equipment, when a front suspension with increased energy intensity is needed.
• 2102 are installed on station wagons VAZ-2102, 21014. Their length is increased by 21 mm compared to 2101, so they are installed on sedans only when you often have to drive on country roads so as not to hit bumps - when installing 2102, the ground clearance under body They cannot be used to increase the load capacity, since they inevitably lead to premature destruction of the body.
• 2108 is installed on all front-wheel drive models, except for modifications with a 16-valve engine and Oka. By the way, in the markets they often deceive owners of VAZ-21099 sedans by offering to purchase scarce “99 springs”. In fact, there are ordinary “eighths” there, and “99ths” do not exist at all.
• 2110 European ones are installed on the rear suspensions of VAZ 21102-21104, 2112, 2114, on the front and rear suspensions 21122 and 21124. The European version is created for cars intended for export. The ground clearance here is reduced by 20 mm, the compliance of the springs is reduced in order to increase their stability at high speed when turning. The cross-country ability of vehicles on off-road and dirt roads is significantly deteriorated.
• 2111 are installed on the rear suspensions of VAZ 2111 and 2113.
• 2112 are installed on the front suspensions of VAZ 21103, 2112, 21113.
• 2121 is used on all-wheel drive models, except Oka.

Replacement

Having decided on the choice of new racks, you can begin the procedure for replacing them. We recommend that you study training videos on replacing rear struts on a VAZ 2114, which allow you to carry out repairs competently and effectively even without experience in such a matter.

Don't try to repair old racks and look on the Internet for some advice on this matter. Even if something is found, resuscitation of failed suspension components will not give the desired effect. Moreover, you risk making the problem even worse.

Remember - these elements cannot be repaired. The only correct solution is replacement. This procedure is performed as follows:

• Place the car on some flat surface. It could just be the floor in your garage;
• Raise the rear axle and be sure to put some kind of stoppers under the wheels so that the car does not suddenly jump off the jack;
• Remove those wheels where you plan to change the struts. The order of replacement does not play a big role, that is, you can start with either the left rear or the right rear wheel;
• The protection is removed from the top mount;
• Armed with a 13 mm wrench, slightly loosen your grip on the rod nut;
• Loosen the other nuts as well. This time the ones that hold the body;
• Take regular pliers and straighten the cotter pins. This will allow you to remove the old stand without any problems;
• There is also a nut on the steering rod, which should be removed without serious effort. Here you will need a 19 mm key;
• Remove the brake hose by unscrewing the nuts securing it;
• When unscrewing the steering knuckle elements, carefully remove your old strut through the arch;
• When installing a new element, simply proceed in the reverse order. There shouldn't be any problems when assembling the unit.

At this point, the procedure for replacing the rear struts can be considered complete. Now check the car in action, make sure that all previous problems are gone and the car behaves as you expected. Obviously, figuring out how to change the rear struts on a VAZ 2114 is not at all difficult. That’s why car owners often resolve such issues in their own garage. This fact does not force you to do everything yourself, since not everyone is given the opportunity to be an experienced auto mechanic. Don't be afraid to contact auto repair shops.

Preparing for replacement

Before you begin repairs, you need to prepare the car. To do this you will need:

1. Park the car on an overpass or inspection hole. Only in this case will you get maximum visibility of all suspension elements.
2. Wheel chocks must be placed under the front wheels.
3. Next, you need to hang the entire rear part of the car; to do this, loosen the wheel bolts.
4. Lift the left and right sides alternately and remove the wheels. Install reliable supports on both sides.

How to install a rear pillar on a VAZ 2114, 2115, 2109, 2108.

Rack assembly process:

1. We pump up the rack.
2. We put on a duster.
3. We put the bump stop on the rack rod.
4. We place a washer with a cushion on the rod.
5. We put on a spring with a pillow attached to it.
6. We put the stand in place by screwing the top first and then the bottom.

The process of installing a rear shock absorber is not complicated, but everything has its own subtleties.

First of all, we pump the racks before installation. Usually the instructions for bleeding come with the strut, but if there is none, just squeeze the strut rod 5 times until the end and remove it. and do not turn it over after pumping (after pumping, the stand should always be in a vertical position).

One more important detail. If the washers that secure the strut rod with the body are installed incorrectly, we will get a creaking of the rear strut of the VAZ 2114. In order to prevent creaking in the strut, it is necessary to install the lower washer with the cup down, and the upper one, on the contrary, with the cup up. In this case, there will be no creaking in the rear of the car.

The spacer must be between the car body and the spring. To install it without problems, tape it to the spring with molar tape. You need to use masking tape; in extreme cases, you can use electrical tape. When using simple tape, it can make extraneous sounds on bumps.

Order of Operations

Removing old shock absorbers and installing rear struts of the VAZ 2114 and other models can be done without an inspection hole or overpass - just jack up the car. But before you lift the car, you need to remove the assembly plugs located in the trunk. So:

1. You need to remove the trunk shelf, bend back the upholstery and use a screwdriver to pull out the plug. The rod nuts are located under them; they need to be unscrewed and the washer and plate removed.

Now you need to jack up the car. This is necessary so that the lower rack lock is accessible. This bolt is most often tight, so it is better to pre-coat it with a special lubricant. If after this you cannot unscrew the fastener, you need to knock it out with a smaller bolt.

Now you can remove the stand, be sure to support it - it may fall. It's easier to do this if you move the end towards the rear of the car

Note! After dismantling the stand, a rubber gasket remains in the glass. It needs to be removed because the material has lost its elasticity

A new spacer must be installed, which is purchased separately from the assembly.

Now you need to remove the spacer sleeve, shock absorber cushion and bushing, remove the cover from the casing, and remove the bump stop from the rod.

You can begin installing the new unit. The rod element must be fully extended. We install the bushing, cover, its cover, and bump stop on the rack. The spacer and spring are assembled after all other parts. On a note! It is advisable to bleed the shock absorbers before assembly. This will increase their functionality and service life. The procedure is performed by turning the device over. This will allow the oil to spread evenly throughout the entire assembly.

Installation is performed in reverse order.

Then all the above operations are repeated on the other side of the machine. Difficulties may arise during assembly:

• if the unit does not want to be placed in its normal place, you can use the jack beam;
• if the old parts have lost their integrity, they need to be replaced, if they are in order, wipe them with kerosene;
• if the support bearing comes out separately during dismantling, this is normal;
• to install the spacer without any problems, you need to glue it to the spring with masking tape;
• Some experts believe that when final tightening the fasteners, you first need to remove the car from the jack.

The sequential replacement of the rear struts of the VAZ 2114 can be seen in this video:

Selection of new

Look at different photos to see what the assembled rear pillar for a VAZ 2114 looks like. This will allow you to understand what you generally need to look for for this car.

The fourteenth model of the domestic automaker AvtoVAZ provides for the use of a telescopic rear pillar.

Kayaba kit

We will not rant about which ones to buy, with what characteristics, from what materials, and so on. We will simply offer you objectively the three best options.

Choice depending on manufacturer

Often, when components break down, people try to buy original, factory-made replacement ones, not wanting to try something new. But you can find decent products from other manufacturers; there are springs that are far from worse than the original ones.

List of the most popular manufacturers:

Sirius. An experienced manufacturer with a huge range of products and the ability to individually order components according to customer drawings.

Having studied all the manufacturers, you can make your own choice and understand which rear springs are best installed on the VAZ 2114.

Replacement features

Sometimes the spring needs to be replaced. On older cars, especially those that have had heavy suspension loads, the spring becomes shorter. This leads to a decrease in the stroke of the shock absorber rod, and the performance of the entire suspension deteriorates. You also need to change the spring if it has cracks or other damage. If you are serious about tuning your car, then it is best to install high-quality rear shock absorbers, springs, and a strut in the luggage compartment.

Installation of the rack occurs in the reverse order. Be sure to change all rubber elements - boots, bumpers, O-rings, silent blocks. Before installation, it is advisable to compress the spring a little and also fix the rubber cushions on it. You can install old bolts, but it is best to use new nuts. It is recommended to use nuts that have plastic thread locks installed inside them.

Tools for work and materials

When replacing the front strut on a VAZ 2114, it is necessary to have all the following tools at hand:

1. Jack (ideally, of course, a hydraulic or pneumatic one would be suitable, since they are convenient to work with).
2. A set of keys.
3. Pliers, duckbills, forceps.
4. Hammer and chisel (just in case).
5. Puller for the ball joint of the steering tip.
6. Spring tensioner.
7. Steel wire.
8. Lubricant like WD-40.

Replacing the front struts of a VAZ 2114 with your own hands is impossible without a new set of spare parts. What is better - to take all the elements separately or together? Depends on how “killed” the shock absorbers installed on the car are. If all the elements of the rack have become unusable, then you can purchase it assembled, then the repair procedure becomes much easier - it will be enough to unscrew a few bolts and install all the suspension components.

But this is true for cases when you purchase branded spare parts, for example, Kayaba (KYB, Kayaba). But if the renovation is “budget”, then you can collect all the elements separately:

1. Shock absorber strut VAZ 2114. Standard SS20.10P/L.00.000-01 will cost you about 5,000 rubles, but you can find it cheaper. The price directly depends on the manufacturer. But we must not forget that quality can also be judged by price. On the VAZ 2114, the front strut is not replaced so often, so you need to be responsible when choosing components.
2. Support bearing number 348702 (or included 8115). Bearing dimensions 14.5x52x1475x100x19 (according to specification).
3. Chipper (silicone is preferable, but rubber is also possible). The ideal copy is number SS74101 - a complete analogue of the stock one.
4. Anther. The cheapest option is plastic, with the number 2108-2902814, but it deteriorates quite quickly and is not worth buying. The similar 2110-2905681-R, from the front pillars of a VAZ 2110, performs much better in operation.
5. Bolts securing the hub to the shock absorber.
6. A spring is needed if the old one has sagged too much.
7. “Little things” such as washers and metal spacers for springs can be borrowed from an old rack.

But we must not forget that the replacement must be carried out simultaneously on both sides! Therefore, all of the above spare parts will have to be purchased in double quantities.

When replacement is required

If your car is still running on factory struts, you can hardly expect that over the course of many years they will not begin to act up and require replacement.

There are several characteristic signs that indicate that the old rear struts have become unusable and the car needs urgent repairs.

1. When hitting holes, potholes, bumps inside the cabin, you feel a dull and strong blow in the area of ​​​​the rear wheels.
2. Even when passing small bumps on the road, the car bounces and so do you. This suggests that the current elements are not working properly, and the level of comfort is significantly reduced.
3. After bouncing, the car with working rear struts immediately returns to its initial position. If they fail, the machine will oscillate for a long time.
4. In the area of ​​the rear pillars there are traces of lubricating fluids, which under normal conditions should not be present with a working unit.

Which racks to choose?

You shouldn’t delay repairing the breakdown, because... This rear suspension unit of the vehicle ensures body stability. There are many options in spare parts stores from different companies. Leaking liquid means a complete failure of the element, but in some cases it is possible to pump old parts. For better results, you need to install new spare parts.

Useful video:

In addition to the factory version from AvtoVAZ with article number 2108-2915004 , 2114 has long been producing higher quality analogues. The price of modified and higher quality options is much higher. If the cost of an “original” spare part is 1800-2000 rubles, then a proven product is sold at a price of 3000 rubles and more.

For those who like to save on spare parts, there is an option from Patron with article number PSA341824. The price of the stand from Patron is only 1300 rubles. There is no need to talk about the quality of the product. There are a lot of reviews that say that they can withstand no more than 10,000 kilometers.

How to replace the rear shock absorbers of a VAZ 2114 with your own hands - step-by-step instructions

1. First of all, you need to remove everything unnecessary from the trunk. We dismantle the plastic casings and everything that may interfere.
2. Next, remove the cup plug, under which there is a nut securing the strut rod.
3. Using a special wrench that needs to be used to keep the rod from turning, and a carbon socket wrench we unscrew, or rather “tear off” the rod securing nut.

The next step is to remove the wheels, to do this we “tear off” the wheel nuts, then install the jack and hang the rear of the car

Attention! Working on a jack is dangerous. therefore, install stops or blocks under the car that will securely hold the car and prevent an accident

1. We dismantle the wheels. Before proceeding with further work, I recommend treating all threaded connections that need to be unscrewed with WD-40, this will speed up the process.
2. We begin to “free” the rack. Using a “19” wrench, unscrew the fastening bolt that secures the rack to the beam.

1. We completely unscrew the “torn off” nut attaching to the rod at the beginning, after which we can safely remove the strut along with the spring.

1. It should be noted that the stand does not always come out with the support, for example, as in my case. Now let's start disassembling the rack.
2. We remove the spring and check the old shock absorber “for ourselves” to make sure that it is really faulty.
3. Next, take a new shock absorber and bleed it. Not many people know that pumping shock absorbers is MANDATORY! Some people mistakenly believe that this is not necessary; as a result, the rack “dies” immediately after replacement or simply lasts several times less than the one that was pumped. How to pump up a rack. Everyone has their own answer to this question; some advise turning it over so that the oil spreads, while others, on the contrary, prohibit doing this. In general, there are enough manuals and video instructions on the Internet that will tell you in detail and show you how to bleed shock absorbers before installation.
4. We assemble the strut and do not forget about the bump stop and shock absorber boot.

1. Let's start installing the shock absorber. Here you will have to tinker. The fact is that sometimes, as in my case, the stand is not so easy to install in place. If difficulties arise, you can jack up the beam with a jack. After the rod has come out, install a sealing gasket in the interior and secure the rod with a fastening nut.

1. Tighten all bolts and nuts. We put the wheels back and lower the car from the jacks. We repeat all the above steps in relation to the other rack. Replacing the rear shock absorber of a VAZ 2114 on the other side follows the same principle.

As you can see, there is nothing complicated in this work. Everything, as they say, can be done if you really want to, if you have the desire and the appropriate tool

That’s all for me, thank you for your attention and see you again at vaz-remont.ru

Let's summarize

As you can see, the procedure is not complicated, you just need to know what and how to do. For a beginner, the event will take up to 4 hours, but if you have the skills, you can complete it in 1.4-2 hours. It is advisable to check the results of work performed for the first time using the wheel alignment method or go to a car service center and use a special stand. The price of the service is affordable, but you will be convinced of your competence as a repairman. There is no definite answer to how regularly rear struts require replacement - it all depends on the quality of spare parts, intensity and care of operation, and driving style.

Source

Removing shock absorber struts

Be sure to treat all threaded connections before replacing the rear pillar of the VAZ-2115. The repair instructions are as follows:

1. Remove the plugs located in the luggage compartment. These niches contain nuts that secure the shock absorber rod.
2. It is advisable to use a special wrench to unscrew the nut on the shock absorber rod. But if there is none, then you can clamp the rod from below using pliers, and unscrew the nut from above with a tubular wrench.
3. Then you need to unscrew the bottom bolt, which secures the rear strut to the beam. Be sure to hold it with a second wrench so that the bolt does not turn.
4. After this, you can pull out the rack assembly.

How to replace rear struts

Owners of front-wheel drive cars are often in no hurry to begin repairing the rear suspension and do not pay due attention to it. This careless attitude is fraught with big problems.

For example, untimely replacement of rear struts can lead to an emergency. When driving at high speed on an uneven highway, say, a car like a Lada Samara with broken rear struts will strongly throw the rear end a little to the left, a little to the right, so, God forbid, don’t fly off the road!

Therefore, we will begin our article by examining the operation of replacing the rear pillars of the related VAZ 2109, and then we will touch on both the “ten” and Samara. However, first a few words about the reasons for the failure of our units.

1. The main reason, of course, is careless driving on bumps, “police” bumps, and on all roads in general.
2. Natural wear and tear, of course.
3. Perhaps the fastening bolt on the lower silent block was not tightened well - if there is a break point near it.

Diagnosing faults is not difficult, here are a few signs:

• There are oil leaks on the shock absorber; when you press on the trunk with your hand, the rear sways;
• spring with cracks;
• The silent block is destroyed.

Now let's get down to business.

Tools required for work

For events with stands you will need the following tool:

• jack;
• wheel keys;
• hammer;
• a set of keys;
• screwdrivers;
• vice;
• pliers;
• puller;
• lubricant for cleaning parts;
• rags.

Do-it-yourself work is fully justified by saving time on a trip to a car service center and money. There, measures to replace the rear shock absorber will cost an average of 1 thousand rubles (as of May 10, 2019). This amount will allow you to purchase spare parts of the best quality. At the same time, you can conduct an audit of your car.

How to remove rear shock absorbers on VAZ 2114, 2115, 2109, 2108.

Begin dismantling the rear shock absorber by removing the plastic plugs located in the trunk.

Having removed the plastic, we will see the nuts screwed onto the shock absorber rod. We unscrew them with a special key. If it is not there, then we use a 17 socket wrench and a 6 wrench or an adjustable wrench.

Having unscrewed the top nut, remove the washer and cushion that stood between the nut and the body.

Before unscrewing the lower shock absorber mounting bolt, lift the wheel on a jack. The racks can be removed very easily if the bolts securing the rack to the beam can be unscrewed without any problems.

What to do if the shock absorber bolt is soured.

Removing the struts can be complicated by souring of the bolts with silent blocks. If you encounter such a problem, then you will not be able to remove the shock absorber without a grinder.

Just carefully file off the head of the bolt and knock it out with a hammer.

Installation procedure

The rear suspension must have springs of the same class.

1. 
   Before putting the shock absorber in place, you need to secure the rubber gasket to the spring with electrical tape or tape.

2. Install the spring on the shock absorber and fully extend the rod. We put a spacer sleeve and a lower cushion on the rod.

We install the shock absorber so that the end of the lower coil of the spring faces the wheel.

3. Insert the shock absorber rod into the hole in the body. At this moment, the assistant puts the upper cushion, support washer on the rod and tightens the rod nut.

Raise the lever to align the holes in the beam bracket and in the shock absorber. Insert the lower fastening bolt and tighten the nut.

5. Put the wheel in place and lower the car onto the wheels. We press the rear of the car several times so that the suspension elements fall into place.

6. Tighten the shock absorber rod mounting nut to a torque of 50–61.7 Nm (5.1–6.3 kgf m).

7. Tighten the nut of the shock absorber lower mounting bolt to a torque of 66.6–82.3 N·m (6.8–8.4 kgf·m).