Tuning a Niva 2121 with your own hands, traditionally for the “classic” model range, is a relatively simple process. The result is the creation of exclusive modifications of the all-terrain vehicle, which in appearance, interior and technical characteristics are not inferior to foreign middle-class models. Do-it-yourself car tuning can be turned into a profitable business, and Niva 2121 will become a training ground and will allow you to gain the necessary knowledge and skills.
DIY tuning of Niva 2121 for off-road
Initially, the Niva 2121 was created as a universal all-terrain vehicle that feels comfortable off-road and in the city. Therefore, it is logical that off-road tuning of the Niva 2121 is especially popular.
This is due to its relative simplicity. To create, or rather, enhance the image of an SUV, you need to install on your car:
- Larger diameter wheels with tires designed for extreme off-road use. It should be recalled that low-profile tires are not relevant in this case. It is also necessary to take into account that installing large-diameter disks requires impressive torque figures. Ignoring this rule will lead to premature wear of the power unit
- Installing arch extensions on a Niva will solve several problems at once: get rid of splashes of dirt on the wings and doors, expand the possibilities in terms of choosing the diameter of the disks, and complement the tuning composition
- Power kit. It consists of a powerful kenguryatnik. It is easy to make it yourself from pipes. A structure is installed on the rear door, onto which the spare tire is attached. It will also perform a protection function. A winch must be installed. It will help off-road and give the car an aggressive, masculine look.
This is all that is needed to create a car designed for participation in sports competitions or outdoor activities. This external tuning of the Niva 2121 combines aesthetic and practical functions. Therefore, the efforts and resources invested in it will quickly pay off.
You can do an easy tuning of the Niva 2121 - install new wheels and tires and apply stylish airbrushing with a 3D effect. To carry out the last operation, it is necessary to attract specialists.
What to change
Do-it-yourself tuning of a Chevrolet Niva (and older models too) should begin by identifying the most important priorities. That is, it is necessary to determine what needs to be replaced first, and what can wait a little.
In general, modification of the machine may include such fundamental changes as:
- Complete replacement of lighting fixtures;
- Replacing conventional wheels with models with a larger diameter in order to be able to travel on domestic off-road conditions;
- Complete rework of the interior trim (replacement of the dashboard, steering wheel, trim, etc.);
- Improving the suspension by adding new automotive elements;
- Installation of arch extensions. This function will help overcome several problems at once - the doors and fenders will not get too dirty, plus the tuning composition will become noticeably wider;
- Taking engine power to a whole new level;
- Adding more efficiency to the trunk.
Based on these key changes, you can build a competent strategy for pumping up your car.
Many improvements can be done yourself; some more complex ones can be left to an experienced professional. And it will not be superfluous to search for information that could be useful in this work.
Tuning the Niva 2121 engine
Traditionally, upgrading the power unit of a domestic SUV should begin with reworking the carburetor. A simple solution would be to install an advanced modification with an enlarged diffuser, also called a throttle. This spare part can also be replaced on a standard injector model. If you completely change this unit, it is recommended to install an electronic ignition system.
Tuning the Niva 2121 carburetor will be most effective together with replacing the camshaft. This gives an impressive increase in power. And here, to avoid overheating, it is necessary to install a radiator with a larger surface area.
Tuning the Niva 2121 engine also includes correcting the engine geometry. This is done by increasing the diameter of the valves. About 10% of the power comes from sealing them. It wouldn't hurt to do the same with the intake and exhaust manifold pushers. To increase the power of the power unit at high speeds, a turbine should be installed. At the same time, it is advisable to replace the intake and exhaust manifolds with advanced modifications.
Useful advice If the car will be used in extreme off-road conditions, it is necessary to install a snorkel. It will allow you to overcome water obstacles without consequences for the engine.
Chip tuning of the Niva 2121 is ineffective, since the car is equipped with an atmospheric engine. There is no need to waste money on purchasing equipment or time on re-flashing. This will only give small improvements to the driving characteristics of the SUV.
The main ways to help increase strength indicators
The most effective and common are:
- The geometry of components changes due to the replacement of factory-installed engine parts
- The so-called chip tuning, the electronic control unit is reflashed
- Turbocharging is installed
All of the above methods are associated with significant financial investments, and help the engine become more dynamic, while increasing its power.
Let's look at all the methods in more detail
Tuning the suspension of Niva 2121
Since the Niva is an all-wheel drive SUV, when tuning it is necessary to pay attention to the suspension. The first step is the Niva lift - increasing the ground clearance. This will create an impressive reserve for overcoming various obstacles. The concept of tuning the Niva 2121 chassis, as well as a suspension lift, includes:
- Installation of spacers between suspension elements. You can make them yourself or buy them in stores.
- Installation of shock absorbers "Rancho"
- Installation of springs VAZ 2104
- Strengthening the front and rear axles using steel boxes
The Niva 2121 suspension lift is a simple process from a technological point of view that can significantly increase the vehicle's cross-country ability. It must be remembered that lifting is directly dependent on the size of the wheels; the larger their diameter, the more significant modifications will be required. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain a balance so that tuning the Niva 2121 suspension with your own hands does not turn into a headache.
Tuning of the Niva 2121 transfer case is also necessary, although this process is largely a refinement. The main problem is the backlash of the front and rear axle shafts. It can be eliminated by installing new components:
- Bearings (it is better to install a double-row variety)
- Lids
- Valov
- Flanges
A good solution would be to strengthen the shaft support. To do this, instead of the original flange, install a modernized one, which has an additional bearing and oil seal.
The second common problem with transfer case is leaking seals. The solution here is extremely simple, you should correctly install high-quality oil seals and the childhood disease of the unit will be eliminated.
The third problem is the correct alignment of the transfer case in the horizontal and vertical plane. This is necessary to reduce vibration and, accordingly, wear of the moving parts of the unit. You can do the alignment manually, but it takes a lot of time, requires patience and the result does not always meet expectations. It is much easier to use a subframe - a special design that is attached to the bottom and greatly simplifies the alignment of the transfer case.
Modified options
Since it is not always possible to supply an engine of a certain foreign car, it is worth considering imported production options that require a little modification:
- The first candidate will again be the French engine from Peugeot XUD 11 series. Since the power of this unit is higher than that of the previous model, some changes will need to be made to the design of the Niva - replacing the gearbox. An acceptable option is a gearbox from Fiat Polonez. In addition, a good solution would be to replace the front supports of the power plant fasteners, pan and exhaust system. It is also worth replacing the drive elements with similar parts from the Chevrolet Niva.
Tuning the interior of Niva 2121
Tuning the interior of the Niva 2121 is carried out according to the standard scheme. It is necessary to replace the interior trim and doors, as well as upgrade the seats. They can be replaced with new sports ones or improved upon the original ones. The second option is expensive and takes a lot of time, so a complete replacement of the seats would be a rational alternative.
To reupholster the interior, you can use your own materials or buy ready-made specialized kits. The interior of the SUV, made in light colors, looks great. It is recommended to do it yourself under the guidance of an experienced specialist. As a last resort, you should study some course or master class on this process.
Also an integral part of interior modernization is the installation of a new steering wheel. It is possible to improve the original one by reupholstering it with various materials and installing additional elements.
Improvements for carbureted SUVs
If you have a carburetor Niva, off-road tuning must necessarily involve the installation of electric fans with sensors for radiators. In modern, injection models, they are installed directly at the factory, but before there was no trace of such “luxury”. Original, with forced activation - be sure to remove it. Why?
It’s simple - when you slowly and carefully “sneak” along deep ruts in the summer, the engine will overheat greatly from the load, and the antediluvian mechanical fan will spin slowly at this time, unable to cope with cooling the hot engine. You understand that in this mode the engine will not last long.
And further. It is highly not recommended to go into the water with a mechanical fan, as it will simply fill the entire engine compartment with liquid, while the electric unit can simply be turned off before doing so. This is how you get a “Niva”. Tuning for off-road, in principle, can be considered complete.
Tuning the instrument panel of Niva 2121
Traditionally, domestic designers developed the Niva not as a luxury, but as a means of transportation, and equipped it with an instrument panel that looks dull and sad. There are many tips on how to bring it to mind with your own hands. In this case, it will be transformed, but its functionality will remain at the same level. Therefore, the best tuning of the Niva 2121 panel is its complete replacement.
A good option would be to install a Flash electronic instrument cluster. This is a futuristic design, complemented by a number of functional features:
- Arrows replaced with LED arcs
- Oil and fuel level indications via scales and digital values
- Built-in trip computer with excellent viewing angle
- Availability of diagnostic service
- Ability to update software versions by simply uploading a new assembly in place of the old one without dismantling the panel
Tuning the Niva 2121 torpedo is often due to the need to install a new modification. Standard minimalism is quite difficult to modernize. The only effective option is to cover the torpedo with various materials or cover it with carbon film.
Experts' opinion
Gena. The engine can be called the real heart of the car. Many people recommend starting tuning with it, since only by improving the engine can you make the car run over bumps and fords. I will say right away that the task is not an easy one. Improving an engine can take a lot of time and effort. Therefore, you should be prepared for difficulties.
Stanislav. The Niva is a good car, even one of the best produced by the domestic auto industry. However, it has many disadvantages, among which we note the low engine power and its unstable operation. That is why, almost immediately after purchasing this car, I immediately upgraded the engine.
Vitaly. I decided to modify the standard Niva engine. There was a lot of work, so I decided to entrust it to professionals. Although I myself have some experience in engine repair, I did not undertake its complete modernization. As a result of the work done, the guys increased the power by 60 hp. Of course, not an impressive result, but still the traction has increased significantly.
Read news about the new Niva
- The modernized Lada Niva Legend (4x4) 2021 was shown on the Internet
- Lada 4×4 Bronto - sales stopped, new details » Lada.Online - all the most interesting and useful about LADA cars
- Description of the instrument panel Lada 4×4 (VAZ 2121, 2131) » Lada.Online - all the most interesting and useful about LADA cars
- Chevrolet Niva gasoline consumption per 100 km
- Buy LADA (VAZ) 2131 (4×4) 2022 in Rostov-on-Don, low price for Lada 2131 (4×4) 2022 on the Avto.ru website
- Fuses Niva 21214 injector «
- The new large Lada 4×4 Niva “Bigster” 2021-2022 based on the Dacia Bigster was shown for the first time. The SUV has changed beyond recognition
- New Niva Chevrolet Lux 2022 - review of GLC equipment
Tuning Niva 2121 doors
In addition to replacing the door trim, you can enhance the interior lighting, in particular the thresholds. To do this, it is necessary to install lamps. They will become a useful element and emphasize the high level of comfort of the tuning car. To make this improvement you will need:
- Ceiling lamps
- Edging for lampshades
- Switches, sensors
- Light bulbs. They can be of bright colors, which will make the car bright and respectable
- Wires
- Isolation
Installing additional lighting will not take much time, but it will become a useful and stylish element of the interior.
Body upgrade
There are many ways to improve the body, and the driver himself chooses the direction of tuning work to give unique qualities to his car.
It would be illogical to believe that tuning the Niva for off-road use will be limited to just this. It will be extremely necessary to strengthen the body, and serious strengthening will be required. At a minimum, you will need to install power bumpers and sills. Without this, the body is unlikely to withstand the enormous loads that will certainly arise on serious off-road conditions. Protection of the crankcase and transfer case is a must, otherwise the first stump or stone you encounter will force you to stop your journey.
By the way, without a power bumper there is no point in even thinking about installing a winch, without which there is absolutely nothing to do in the forest or field! It will come in very handy to scald the side members: you don’t want the body to bend like a screw due to wild overloads, do you? This is especially important if you have a Niva 2131. Off-road tuning of this car should take into account that the body of the “five-door” is significantly weakened!
Also interesting: Buy Niva Wheel Hub Cap online, Niva Wheel Hub Cap at a discount on AliExpress
By the way, about the handout. We strongly advise you to install one with a distribution ratio of at least 3:1. For the standard one, this value is only 2:1, so you will feel the difference already on your first ride!
Tuning the trunk of Niva 2121
The Niva's extensive luggage compartment is an advantage only at first glance. The large volume provides absolutely no functionality, and the rib at the bottom of the trunk is a completely unnecessary element that interferes with loading. On later modifications it is missing. Also in the way is the folding shelf, which divides the trunk into two parts in the transverse plane.
It is best to remove these disturbing elements and install a box with pockets, drawers, compartments, which will allow you to organize the loaded items. It can be made from wood and metal. Corners or tubes should be used as a frame; it is subsequently sheathed with plywood or other material and trimmed with fabric. Before installing the box, it would not hurt to install noise and thermal insulation on the body.
You can also go the standard route and install a speaker system, LCD monitor or other fashionable gadget in the trunk. The latter option is impractical if the car is being tuned for difficult off-road conditions.
An expeditionary trunk for the Niva wouldn't hurt. It will allow you to take a lot of things and save internal space. It will also be a harmonious addition to off-road style. An alternative would be to install an arc with headlights. This will increase the driver's visibility. It is a useful element when driving in bad weather conditions.
Practical advice for installing a diesel engine
When deciding to install it yourself, you should pay attention to the following experience.
Among the possible units that the designers of both the classic car and the Chevrolet Niva considered was the Peugeot engine with the index XUD-9SD. Not the most powerful unit (from 69 to 75 hp) is highly reliable. When planning such tuning, you need to be prepared to make some modifications:
- Replace the gearbox. Among the options, a box from Fiat Polnes was offered, as it would work with such an engine. But it won’t be easy to find a unit from a car that is now rare.
- Clutch mechanism. When searching for a box, they immediately select a clutch mechanism, which must ensure transmission of rotation and match in size.
- Engine support points. When installing on the Niva, the front engine mounts required modifications.
- Pallet shape. Taking into account the dense layout of the Niva’s engine compartment, the pallet requires an original shape, and was often made individually.
- Exhaust system. Minimal modifications to the exhaust piping are required.
In some cases, to increase the safety margin, it is noted that it is necessary to install front-wheel drive parts from the Chevrolet Niva model. But with gentle operation, such modification is not necessary.
The serial Niva with this engine was produced until 2009 and was mainly exported. With a certain amount of luck, the car can still be found in advertisements for sale. A special feature of the car is its low dynamics. The car reaches the first hundred in only 25 seconds.
Tuning headlights of Niva 2121
Tuning the optics of the Niva 2121 sets the tone for the overall modernization concept. For example, installing headlights from Mercedes Gelandewagen will create the ambience of a powerful, aggressive SUV. Sports modifications of the headlights will add dynamics to the appearance and emphasize the streamlined shape. High power LED headlights can be installed to increase visibility. Another good option is to install lensed, crystal or bi-xenon headlights.
Helpful advice Standard models have virtually no potential for modernization, so it is better to replace them with new ones.
Tuning the rear lights of the Niva 2121 is carried out according to the same scheme as upgrading the optics. It is easier and more efficient to replace standard lights with new modifications.
In the white light, like a pretty penny
Lighting devices are one of the weak points not only of the VAZ mini-SUV, but also of most domestic cars of that period in general. And many foreign models of that time also cannot boast of sufficiently good lighting devices.
In the case when tuning a VAZ 2121 Niva is carried out, the main problem in altering the lighting is the small internal volume of the “native” headlight. This often does not make it possible to improve the quality of road lighting with little expense by installing bi-xenon lamps - the lamps themselves, the starter and the corrector simply do not fit in the Niva’s miniature headlight.
There are two ways out of this situation. The first is the selection of the smallest possible devices that will fit into the limited space of a standard headlight. In addition to the difficulty of searching, this option is also fraught with problems during operation of the improved lighting device. The fact is that a small space will lead to significant heating of the device - excess heat will not have time to be removed. So it is possible that xenon lamps or the control unit will quickly fail.
Self-locking differential
This is indeed an excellent option that really helps solve the question: how to increase the cross-country ability of the Niva. The vehicle's handling, as well as its maneuverability and stabilization, almost entirely depend on what type of differential the vehicle owner prefers. It is the differential that determines the main parameters of the transmission. The most efficient and productive is the screw-type self-locking differential. The main task of this part is to accurately distribute torque and transfer power from the engine to each wheel of an SUV.
Self-locking differential for VAZ 21214, 2123 screw 3-piece (24 splines) SV-PARTS
Art. SV.23.2303018
7750.00
— +
Buy
Why is it important? When a car makes a maneuver, the wheels move along a different path: the inner wheel travels a shorter distance than the outer one. If the connection is rigid and the angular speeds are equal, then the inner wheel will begin to slip, the tires will wear out faster, and controllability will decrease.
A self-locking differential allows you to intelligently distribute torque and synchronize wheel movement, maintaining vehicle stability. How to improve the Niva's cross-country ability in snow? Choose a composite differential design, which has three parts that ensure the accuracy of the original parameters, minimize losses due to friction and greatly extend the life of all transmission elements.
The self-locking differential provides:
- improved controllability and maneuverability of the car on any road surface;
- a noticeable increase in the cross-country ability of an SUV on difficult terrain;
- improved dynamics during acceleration.
Back to Contents
Illustrative examples
Do-it-yourself tuning of the VAZ 21099
There are a large number of Niva tuning videos, where you can get step-by-step instructions for performing the work. This will allow:
- perform all planned work technically correctly;
- avoid possible difficulties;
- save significant money.
This opportunity to get a clear example will be of great help in planning appropriate improvements.
In some respects, this SUV outperforms renowned foreign cars of this class, while its cost is significantly lower. Experiment and enjoy the work done!
