Elastic suspension elements appeared in transport hundreds of years ago, it was too hard to ride carts on cobblestones. The term "suspension" accurately conveys the essence of the design: the body of a carriage or chaise was literally hung on leather belts. In 1804, instead of belts, leaf springs appeared, and a hundred years later, on self-propelled carriages - cars - they were replaced by more comfortable and technologically advanced twisted ones.
Surprisingly, since then, the design of elastic elements has not fundamentally changed. The suspension is overgrown with advanced shock absorbers, floating silent blocks and hydraulic stabilizers, and the coil springs have not disappeared anywhere. Moreover, even archaic leaf springs are still used on trucks and pickup trucks. Of course, there are also curiosities: torsion bars (elastic rods - the progenitors of springs) and air bags. But on most passenger cars today you will find the classic spring suspension. Let's talk about them in more detail.
Springs as the basis of the suspension
Springs are key suspension elements. It is they who keep the car above the road, and also "swallow" all the blows from holes and irregularities. Replacing the springs can drastically change how your vehicle behaves on the road.
Springs are selected by engineers based on the mass and purpose of the machine, and shock absorbers are selected for the characteristics of the springs, damping their inertia. Often, even in different configurations of the same machine, the springs differ in characteristics. For example, diesel models often have stiffer and longer springs than gasoline ones due to the severity of the engine. There are differences depending on the market: for North America, where comfort is valued, cars are traditionally equipped with softer springs.
Spring stiffness
Stiffness is a key characteristic of the spring, which affects the energy consumption of the suspension (the ability to drive over bumps without "breakdowns"), ride smoothness and vehicle handling.
The opinions of car owners about the stiffness of the springs are diametrically opposed. Someone is sure that "the stiffer the better", arguing this with the steering precision and the absence of rolls. Some will say that stiff springs are evil, killing comfort and handling on bad roads. Both are right, and finding the right balance is no easy task.
The characteristics of the spring are calculated by its size - there are even online calculators for this, like for tires. And knowing the basic laws, some conclusions can be drawn even "by eye".
Springs differ from each other in response to load: it can be linear and progressive. Often, car owners replace one type with another: either they install progressive springs instead of linear ones in order to improve the suspension performance, or vice versa - in order to save money.
Linear spring- this is a classic winding with the same turn pitch and constant stiffness. It is easy to manufacture - therefore the cheapest and most common. Under load, such a spring is compressed linearly: at the moment of full compression, all the turns close at the same time.
Spring with progressive characteristic it is characterized by variable stiffness and non-linear compression under load due to different coil pitch. The harder you press on such a spring, the harder it becomes. Under load, the coils with a smaller pitch are closed first, the total number of remaining free coils decreases, and the spring stiffness increases.
When and how to change springs
Usually the springs are changed due to their breakage or when the machine sags noticeably. But it is better not to lead to either one or the other.
A breakage of a spring bar is an unpleasant situation: the car is completely immobilized, and you will have to drive a tow truck before service. Often, the springs burst from shock loads on off-road terrain, far from civilization, which further complicates the task.
But the springs do not break just like that - except in rare cases of factory defects. Typically, this failure is preceded by either metal fatigue or corrosion. The latter can be identified in advance: if you notice rust on the spring, do not pull with the replacement! The focus of corrosion is a likely place for future breakdown.
There is nothing good in the sinking of the car either, and it's not just a decrease in ground clearance and the inability to drive onto a high curb. Sagging springs increase the load on other suspension and transmission elements - shock absorbers, wheel bearings, CV joints. And in the MacPherson suspension, because of this, the wheel alignment angles even get lost.
Slightly sagging springs are difficult to detect with the naked eye. Better to take a tape measure, measure the distance between the center of the disc and the wheel arch and compare with the factory value. Besides, roll to one side is inadmissible: both left and right heights must be the same. Often the springs from the more loaded side - the driver's side - are the first to "give up", especially if the gas tank is located in the same place.
What is the resource of the springs? It used to be considered that it is equal to two resources of shock absorbers, i.e. the springs need to be changed not with them, but every other time. But those times are already in the past: the springs are becoming thinner and lighter, and now they fail almost simultaneously with the shock absorbers, having “worked” 70-80 thousand km.
Often it is more economical to change springs together with shock absorbers - you don't have to pay twice for the same work if they are assembled. Just remember that the springs, like the shock absorbers, change in pairs on each axle: a single replacement will lead to imbalance in the suspension.
Spring tuning
And yet the most popular reason for replacing springs is not a breakdown or subsidence of the car, but tuning. Suspension lift or lowering it, additional stiffness or smoothness - all these are reasons for changing the springs. Fortunately, now there are a lot of options for non-standard springs on sale for all running car models.
But you need to do customization wisely, without turning tuning into a "collective farm", of which there are many examples. One of the most common is cutting the springs: either their own, so that " with little blood»Understate the suspension, or taken from another car to adapt them to your own.
The spring is not uniform along its entire length. At the ends of it there are so-called support turns, the task of which is to strengthen the structure, correctly fold the spring during operation and fix it in the seat. Trimming the reference turn violates the entire calculation of the spring, creates additional stresses in the metal and, after some time, leads to breakage of the bar. Never cut the springs!
The installation of "approximately suitable" springs from other cars is also doubtful. The load will not exactly match the calculated one, which will reduce the spring life, worsen suspension performance and affect handling. The experiment may end ahead of schedule: unsuitable springs often fly out of the seats in the limiting modes of the suspension (for example, when hanging a wheel), and the car falls on its "belly".
If you took up tuning - select the springs designed specifically for your car. And do not forget that shock absorbers must match them not only in length, but also in characteristics: in good tuning kits, and for a reason, they come in one set.
What springs are better to put car owners are wondering when faced with the choice of these elements and the improvement of suspension performance. The selection will depend on the length, overall diameter, steel diameter, stiffness, spring shape, manufacturer's brand. Therefore, in order to choose the best option, it is necessary to analyze all the listed factors. And also decide on the goal - to carry passengers or bags of potatoes ...
Springs replacement signs
There are four main signs that a spring needs to be replaced.
Roll the machine to one side
It is checked visually when the machine is on a level surface, without load. If the body is skewed to the left or right side, the springs need to be replaced. Likewise with forward / backward roll. If before that the car stood on the surface level, and now its front or rear part in a calm state has dropped significantly down, then new springs must already be installed.
However, there is one caveat when the spring may not be to blame. In the design of VAZ-classic cars (models from VAZ-2101 to VAZ-2107), a so-called glass or seat is provided in the upper part of the spring. The spring rests against it with its upper part.
Often, in old cars, during a long operation, the glass falls through, which leads to a distortion of the entire structure. For diagnostics, it is necessary to dismantle the spring from the sagging side of the machine, remove the rubber cushion and inspect the glass itself. Most often, such a breakdown occurs from the front wheels, especially the left. However, this also occurs on the rear suspension.
Extraneous noise in the suspension
The noise can be very different - clank, rumble, thud. This noise appears on the slightest irregularities in the road, even small pits or bumps. Of course, ideally, you need to perform a full diagnosis and check of ball, steering rods, rubber bands. However, if the listed elements are in working order, then it is necessary to check the shock absorber springs.
Often the reason for the clanking or rattling sounds from the suspension lies precisely in the broken spring. This usually happens at some loop. Less often - the spring splits into two parts. However, in the latter case, the roll of the car body will appear.
Metal fatigue
The concept of "metal fatigue" means that during operation the spring loses its properties and, accordingly, does not work normally. This is usually true for the extreme / extreme loop. So, the very end of the spring, with considerable effort, hits the penultimate coil. As a result of this, two flat workings are mutually formed on their surface. That is, the bar from which the spring is made becomes not round in cross section, but slightly flattened on one side. It can be found both above and below.
As a rule, such spring elements do not hold the suspension, and the car sags, and also very gently "bounces" in the pits. In this case, it is advisable to install a new spring. And the sooner the better. This will protect other suspension elements and make the ride more comfortable.
Rear spring problems
Checking an unloaded machine may not always give the correct answer to the question of whether the springs need to be replaced. The fact is that over time, the rear of the car sags in case of congestion. And then, on bumps, wheel arches or mud flaps strikes against the road. In this case, additional diagnostics are needed.
If the springs have burst, then they need to be replaced. When they are simply "tired", while you buy new ones, you can use the so-called spacers or thickened rubber bands that are installed under seats springs in the "glass". Installation of spacers will cost much less, and will solve the problem of a low landing of the car, that is, increase the ground clearance.
As for the front springs, the same procedure can be done with them, but this will significantly increase the suspension stiffness. This leads not only to discomfort while driving, but also to an increase in the load on the "glasses", because of which they can simply burst. Therefore, it is up to the car owner to decide whether or not to install thickened spacers in the front.
What to look for when choosing
There are several factors to consider when choosing springs.
Rigidity
Rigidity affects not only the comfort when driving in the car, but also when the load on other elements of it running system... Soft springs are more comfortable to ride, especially on poorly paved roads. However, it is undesirable to put them on a car that often transports significant loads. Conversely, stiffer springs are best used on vehicles designed to carry heavy loads. This is especially true for rear shock absorbers.
In the context of rigidity, one more situation is relevant. Often, when buying new springs (especially for VAZ-classics), a pair of identical springs included in one set may have different stiffness. Naturally, this leads to the fact that the car tilts to the right or left. It is almost impossible to check them when buying them, so there are two ways to solve the problem.
The first is to install the spacers mentioned above. With their help, you can level the ground clearance of the machine and achieve uniform suspension stiffness. The second way is to buy better quality springs, usually from trusted manufacturers, usually foreign ones.
Stiffness is a physical quantity that in springs depends on the following parameters:
- Bar diameter... The larger it is, the more and the rigidity. However, here you need to take into account the shape of the spring and the diameter of the bar from which each turn is made. There are springs with variable overall diameters and bar diameters. More about them later.
- Spring outer diameter... Other things being equal, the larger the diameter, the lower the stiffness.
- Number of turns... The more there are, the lower the rigidity. This is because the spring will bend along its vertical axis. However, here you need to consider additional parameters. In particular, a spring with a small number of turns will have a small stroke, which is unacceptable in many cases.
Length
The longer the springs are, the greater the vehicle's clearance will be. For each specific car model, the corresponding value is directly indicated in its technical documentation. In some cases, the length of the front and rear springs will be different. In the best case, the manufacturer's recommendations should be adhered to. Departure from them is possible only for tuning or in the case of using a car for cargo transportation.
Coil parameters
The general name in this case means the diameter and the number of turns. The overall stiffness of the spring depends on these two parameters. By the way, some models of springs have an uneven shape with turns of different diameters. In particular, with narrow turns at the edges, and wide in the middle.
However, such turns also have different diameters of the metal bar. So, the large diameter coils in the middle of the spring are made from a large diameter bar. And the extreme small turns are from a small diameter bar. Large rods work on large irregularities, and small ones, respectively, on small ones. However, due to the fact that small rods are made of thinner metal, they tend to break more often.
These springs are mostly original, that is, those that were installed from the factory. They are more comfortable to ride, but their resource is lower, especially with constant driving on bad roads. Non-original springs are usually made from a bar of the same diameter. This reduces the ride comfort of the vehicle, but increases the overall spring life. In addition, such a spring will be cheaper, since it is technologically easier to manufacture it. What to choose in this or that case - everyone decides for himself.
Types
All damping springs are divided into five basic types. In particular:
- Standard... These are springs with the characteristics specified in the machine manufacturer's recommendations. They are usually intended for use in urban environments or in limited off-road conditions.
- Reinforced... They are usually used on vehicles designed to carry large loads. For example, in variants when base model the car is a sedan, and the reinforced option is a van or pickup with a load compartment in the back.
- With the rise... Such springs are used to increase ground clearance ( ground clearance) of the car.
- Underreporting... With their help, on the contrary, they reduce the ground clearance. It changes dynamic characteristics machine, as well as its handling.
- With variable stiffness... These springs provide a comfortable ride in various road conditions.
The choice of one or another type of springs depends on the operating conditions of the machine and the recommendations of the manufacturer.
Springs for shock absorbers VAZ
According to the statistics provided by the service station, most often domestic car owners of VAZ cars are concerned about the problem of replacing shock absorber springs, both of the so-called "classics" (models from VAZ-2101 to VAZ-2107) and front-wheel drive models (VAZ 2109, 2114).
Most of the springs for Zhiguli, Samar, Niv are produced directly at the Volzhsky Automobile Plant. However, there are other manufacturers as well. In this case, a trademark is applied to the springs or a third-party tag is attached. Please note that the original springs made at VAZ are more technologically advanced.
The fact is that one of the final stages in the manufacture of springs, in particular for the rear part of the suspension, is the application of a protective epoxy coating to the surface of the spring. The front springs may only be coated with a special black enamel based on chlorinated rubber. And only the manufacturer of the VAZ applies on rear springs protective epoxy material. Other manufacturers simply apply enamel to both the front and rear springs. Accordingly, it is preferable to buy original VAZ springs.
The last step in the manufacture of automotive springs is to control their quality and rigidity. All manufactured products pass through it. Those springs that fail the test are automatically rejected. The rest are divided into two classes, depending on the tolerance field. If the tolerance field is positive, then such a spring belongs to class A in terms of load. When a similar field is minus, then to class B. In this case, the springs of each class have a corresponding color designation - a strip of a certain color is applied on the outer strip.
The division into the above classes (and their color gradation) was adopted due to the fact that the stiffness of all finished springs will differ, albeit slightly. Therefore, strictly speaking, if you want to put a stiffer spring, then your choice is class A, if a softer one, then class B. At the same time, the difference in their stiffness can be insignificant, in particular, from 0 to 25 kilograms of load.
The color coding and technical data of the springs produced at VAZ are shown in the table.
| Spring | Model | Bar diameter, in mm, tolerance is 0.5 mm | Outer diameter, mm / tolerance | Spring height, mm | Number of turns | Spring color | Stiffness class | Marking color |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Front | 1111 | 10 | 94/0,7 | 317,7 | 9,5 | black | - | - |
| 2101 | 13 | 116/0,9 | 360 | 9,0 | black | A-standard | Yellow | |
| B-soft | Green | |||||||
| 2108 | 13 | 150,8/1,2 | 383,5 | 7,0 | black | A-standard | Yellow | |
| B-soft | Green | |||||||
| 2121 | 15 | 120/1,0 | 278,0 | 7,5 | black | A-standard | Yellow | |
| B-soft | Green | |||||||
| 2110 | 13 | 150,8/1,2 | 383,5 | 7,0 | black | A-standard | Red | |
| B-soft | Blue | |||||||
| 2141 | 14 | 171/1,4 | 460,0 | 7,5 | Gray | - | - | |
| Back | 1111 | 10 | 100,3/0,8 | 353,0 | 9,5 | Gray | - | - |
| 2101 | 13 | 128,7/1,0 | 434,0 | 9,5 | Gray | A-standard | Yellow | |
| B-soft | Green | |||||||
| 2102 | 13 | 128,7/1,0 | 455,0 | 9,5 | Gray | A-standard | Red | |
| B-soft | Blue | |||||||
| 2108 | 12 | 108,8/0,9 | 418,0 | 11,5 | Gray | A-standard | Yellow | |
| B-soft | Green | |||||||
| 21099 | 12 | 110,7/0,9 | 400,0 | 10,5 | Gray | A-standard | Red | |
| B-soft | Blue | |||||||
| 2121 | 13 | 128,7/1,0 | 434,0 | 9,5 | Gray | A-standard | White | |
| B-soft | Black | |||||||
| 2110 | 12 | 108,9/0,9 | 418,0 | 11,5 | Gray | A-standard | White | |
| B-soft | Black | |||||||
| 2141 | 14 | 123/1,0 | 390,0 | 9,5 | Gray | - | - |
Traditionally, VAZ springs of class A are marked in yellow, and class B in green. However, as you can see from the table, there are exceptions. First of all, this applies to station wagons - VAZ-2102, VAZ-2104, VAZ-2111. Naturally, these machines are equipped with stronger springs.
Many motorists are interested in the question, can springs from station wagons be installed on sedans or hatchbacks? In fact, it depends on the goal pursued. If it consists in the fact that to increase the ground clearance due to the fact that the body began to sag with aging, then an appropriate replacement can be performed. If the car owner wants to increase the carrying capacity of the car in this way, then this is a bad idea.
Reinforced springs can lead to gradual deformation of the body, and, therefore, premature failure of the machine.
The color gradation of the springs may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Similarly with geometric dimensions... In terms of color, traditional yellow can be replaced by red and / or similar brown. In more rare cases, white is used. It is the same with green, which can be replaced by blue or black.
As for the diameter of the spring bar, it can be different from different manufacturers. And some (for example, "Phobos", which will be discussed below) generally make springs from a bar of different diameters on one product. Therefore, it is important to select the overall height and outer diameter of the spring.
There are several typical types of VAZ springs that are installed on various models of this manufacturer. Let's consider them in more detail:
- 2101 ... This is a classic version for VAZ-classics, that is, for rear-wheel drive sedans.
- 21012 ... These springs are unique and non-standard. In general, they are similar to 2101, but are made from a larger diameter bar, which is why they are more rigid. They were originally intended for installation on the right front side in export right-hand drive vehicles. Similar springs were installed on both sides of the front suspension in vehicles with special equipment.
- 2102 ... These are springs for station wagon cars (VAZ-2102, VAZ-2104, VAZ-2111). They are increased in length.
- 2108 ... These springs are mounted on front wheel drive cars VAZ with eight-valve engines. The exception is VAZ-1111 "Oka". There is another version 2108 in export performance. They are color-coded. So, the front springs are marked in white and blue, and the rear ones are in brown and blue. Accordingly, it is better to ride with them only on good roads. They are not intended for domestic roads, so it is better not to use such springs.
- 2110 ... These are the so-called "European" springs intended for the installation of machines intended to be exported. In particular, for cars VAZ 21102-21104, 2112, 2114, 21122, 21124. Please note that these springs have low stiffness and are designed for operation on smooth European roads. Accordingly, for bumpy domestic roads, it is better not to buy them. Including, you do not need to install them if the car is supposed to be often used for off-road driving or on dirt country roads.
- 2111 ... Such springs are installed on VAZ-2111 and VAZ-2113 cars.
- 2112 ... Designed for installation on the front part of the suspension of cars VAZ-21103, VAZ-2112, VAZ-21113.
- 2121 ... Springs are installed on all-wheel drive "Niva", including VAZ-2121, VAZ-2131 and other modifications.
Springs for VAZ 2107
Ideally, it is recommended to install original VAZ 2101 springs for the "seven". However, if you want to improve aerodynamics and increase steering sensitivity, you can put more rigid samples. For example, from the station wagon VAZ-2104. This is recommended only for relatively old cars. This should not be done to increase the carrying capacity. By the way, if you do this, you will need to cut off one coil from the spring for the VAZ-2104.
Springs for VAZ 2110
Traditionally, on the front suspension "tens" from eight valve motor install original springs 2108, and on the rear one - 2110 euros. Their characteristics will ensure the optimal behavior of the machine both on asphalt surfaces and on unpaved roads.
If the car is equipped with a 16-valve engine, then stronger springs are installed on the front suspension - 2112. On the rear - the same 2110 euros. The exception is the VAZ-2111.
Selection by catalog
On modern cars, in most cases, the choice of shock absorber springs occurs in electronic catalogs. The technical documentation clearly indicates the spring model, its full name, characteristics, dimensions, load capacity, and so on. Therefore, if the car owner does not want to change anything in the suspension, but only replace the part with a new one, then there is nothing difficult in choosing.
However, in some cases, car owners, for whatever reason, want to replace the spring with a stiffer or softer one. Then you need to pay attention to the following parameters:
- Manufacturer. Genuine springs (especially on VAG machines) can have a wide range of stiffness. And non-original springs do not have such an assortment.
- Spring type. In particular, their marking, including color.
- Rigidity. It will most likely differ from the original one (depending on the number of turns and their diameter).
After specifying the model of the springs used on the Internet, you need to clarify the VIN-code by which you can buy a spring in an online store or at a regular outlet.
Suspension Springs Rating
Which auto springs are better? There is no unequivocal answer to this question, and there cannot be, since there is a huge variety of them with differences, as in technical parameters and manufacturers. The following is a list of ten good and most popular spring manufacturers, whose products are ubiquitous on the domestic auto parts market.
LESJOFORS
The full name of the company is LESJOFORS AUTOMOTIVE AB. It is one of the oldest and largest companies producing springs, shock absorbers, springs in Europe. The company has eight manufacturing plants in Sweden, and one each in Finland, Denmark and Germany. The company owns the trademarks LESJOFORS, KILEN, KME, ROC, under which springs are also produced.
LESJOFORS springs are very different high quality... They are made of high-quality high-carbon spring steel, covered with a protective layer on top (phosphating), and painted with powder paint. All this allows you to maintain the performance of the springs for many years. In addition, all springs are subject to quality and performance control. The range of produced springs is about 3200 items. The reviews are mostly positive, because even there are few fakes. The only drawback is the high price.
Kilen
In the fall of 1996, the German company Kilen was acquired by the aforementioned LESJOFORS. Until that time, both of them were direct competitors. Accordingly, the Kilen trademark is owned by LESJOFORS. Kilen springs are of high quality and durability. The manufacturer claims that the products it produces have a resource twice that of the original VAZ springs. Reviews of car owners, in general, confirm this statement. Therefore, these springs are recommended for purchase not only to the owners of domestic VAZs, but also to other cars for which the company produces springs. The price is adequate.
Lemforder
Lemforder springs are supplied as original spare parts on many cars all over the world. Accordingly, the company is considered one of the world leaders in their production. Often, such springs are installed on expensive foreign cars, that is, they are presented in the premium sector. Accordingly, they cost a lot of money.
As for the quality, it is at its best. However, in some cases, it is noted that either a fake or a marriage is rarely found. But such cases are few. Such expensive springs are recommended for installation on foreign business and premium class cars.
CS Germany
Springs CS Germany belong to the middle price range and to the middle quality segment. Produced in Germany. A good option in terms of price and quality ratio, recommended for European cars. The reviews are mostly positive.
Koni
The springs produced under the Koni trademark are distinguished by a high service life. The manufacturer produces a wide range of springs for different cars... An interesting feature is the fact that many spring models can be adjusted in terms of stiffness. It is done using a special adjusting "lamb". As for the price, it is usually above average, but does not come close to the premium class.
BOGE
A large number of different suspension elements, including springs, are produced under the BOGE brand. They belong to the premium class, are of high quality and at a high price. Marriage is extremely rare. Recommended for installation on machines of European manufacturers. The reviews are mostly positive.
Eibach
Eibach springs are among the highest quality and most durable springs on the market. Over time, they practically do not sag and do not lose rigidity. They can definitely be recommended to all car owners, for whose cars there are suitable springs. The only conditional drawback of these spare parts is their high price.
SS20
All SS20 springs are 100% quality according to the manufacturer. This is ensured by the fact that during mechanical testing of new products, the springs are selected in pairs. That is, a pair of springs will be guaranteed to have the same mechanical characteristics. Firm CC20 produces its springs using two technologies - cold and hot winding, both overstated and understated.
K + F
Kraemer & Freund is also one of the leaders in the production of various spare parts, including springs for cars and freight transport... The company supplies its products to both primary and secondary market... The range of products sold has about 1300 items, and is constantly expanding. Genuine K + F springs are of high quality but cost a lot.
TEVEMA
The Polish company TEVEMA produces shock absorber springs for the European and Asian markets. The products of this company are often used by owners of cars produced in 1990-2000s. They are excellent replacements for original spare parts. At the same time, the cost of new springs is approximately two to three times lower than that of the original ones. Reviews of the springs are mostly positive.
The spring manufacturers listed above belong to the middle class, that is, they produce fairly high-quality products for relatively inexpensive price... Therefore, they are popular. However, there are two more classes of manufacturers. The first is premium manufacturers. Their products are of extraordinary quality, and their original products are installed on expensive business and premium class foreign cars. For example, such manufacturers include Sachs, Kayaba, Bilstein. They have almost no drawbacks, only the high price of their springs makes them look for a cheap alternative.
Another segment of firms under whose brands springs are produced is budget class... This includes a lot of companies. For example, Tekhtime, PROFIT, Maxgear. The price of such springs is quite low, however, their quality is appropriate. Such companies do not have their own production facilities, but only pack cheap and variable quality springs purchased somewhere in China. For example, rejected during testing at some of the more well-known enterprises. However, there are a number of cheap springs that can still be used and which have received a lot of positive feedback.
But among the budget springs there are some pretty good options. These include.
Suspension springs of any vehicle perform many important functions. Correctly selected, they have a qualitative impact on the entire process of driving a car and its carrying capacity, make the unevenness of the road surface less noticeable to the driver, and increase the comfort during trips, especially long ones.
Naturally, the more adequately the car's suspension system works, the less wear and tear are exposed to its main units and the body itself. That the springs are extremely important element, is confirmed by the fact that during their production they are marked - this avoids confusion in the selection and installation. Hardness and color marking is mandatory for all manufacturers.
Main varieties
Four types of springs are widely used, which are installed on all modern cars.
- Standard. They can be considered the basic option, which is installed at the factory during the manufacture of a car. Such elements are designed for the operation of the vehicle under standard conditions, regulated by technical data sheet auto.
- Reinforced. Designed to improve performance characteristics A vehicle that is used in off-road conditions, with constant transportation of goods or towing trailers.
- Overpriced. After installation, they contribute to an increase in ground clearance and vehicle carrying capacity.
- Understating. Mostly, these samples are set by amateurs. sport driving, since they lower the ground clearance and shift the center of gravity of the car downward.
Why color coding is required
Color coding, which makes life easier for motorists when choosing, is the result of a complex production process. It is characterized by a huge number of complex technological operations that are very difficult, and often impossible, to control.
Therefore, all manufacturers that carry out mass production of springs consider it necessary to carry out comparative analyzes of products after manufacture. As a result, a classification by color appeared, since this is the only way to distinguish elements of different rigidity after manufacturing. Of course, there are other ways to define springs. different types but this one is the simplest and most reliable one.
Differences between springs depending on their markings
In addition to color, its diameter serves as the main "identifier" for any spring. It is determined not by the manufacturer, but by the developer of the vehicle, and during the production process it is not subject to spontaneous change, as well as the color of the shock absorber springs. Nevertheless, the following parameters of the finished product depend on the manufacturer:
The difference in color between these elements is a prerequisite, since it is impossible to determine the degree of hardness by other parameters. At the factory, a special test is used for this - after compressing the finished sample with a certain force, the height is measured. This parameter is strictly regulated and if the finished item does not comply with the norm, it is rejected. Each normal spring is assigned a class - "A" for those that fall within the upper tolerance, and "B" - for those whose height corresponds to the lower tolerance.
Color classification of suspension springs
Despite the abundance of possible colors, it is quite easy to determine the degree of hardness. All springs installed on cars of the VAZ family have two classes, which are marked with certain colors:
- class A - white, yellow, orange and brown paint;
- class B - black, blue, cyan and yellow paints.
In order to independently determine the hardness by color, you need to pay attention to the strip that is on the outside of the loop - it is she who determines this parameter. The color of the spring itself can be different as it depends on the protective coating used to reduce the influence of the harsh environment and corrosion. Epoxy or chlorinated rubber enamel is used as such a coating. Therefore, the decoding of the springs by color is possible only by the strip on the turns.
The color of the protective cover itself also plays a role in the marking of the shock springs. It identifies the vehicle model for which the spring is intended, as well as its purpose - for installation in the front or rear. Although if we take into account the factories that produce VAZs, they prefer to paint the front springs exclusively in black. An exception can be considered samples with a variable distance between the turns - they have a blue color.
How to use springs according to their class
Both classes - "A" and "B", have absolutely performance characteristics, and can be installed on a car equally. The only thing to remember when installing is that the colors of the suspension springs must be identical on both sides of the vehicle. Otherwise, a slight but constant roll of the body to one of the sides may form, which will significantly impair the vehicle's handling and its stability on the road. In addition, if the color of the springs differs in terms of stiffness, this will lead to accelerated wear of the nodes of the entire "walker".
Experts quite often talk about the need to use elements of only one class on one vehicle. In extreme cases, it is allowed to install class "A" springs on the front axle, on the rear "B". But in no case is it the other way around - this is categorically unacceptable. To avoid confusion when self-replacement, the color markings must match, as well as their class.
Class "A" and "B" - are there any significant differences
For many car enthusiasts, the spring rate in terms of color is equivalent to that of the class. Class "A", regardless of color, is more severe than class "B". In fact, this is not a completely true statement. Class "A" is really more suitable for vehicles that are often operated with high loads. But the difference here is quite small - about 25 kg. Despite the mandatory application of the marking, there are still samples on which it is absent. In this case, even if the color coding of the elements is identical, it is better to refuse to purchase and use them.
Many motorists underestimate the importance of high-quality springs, especially when the vehicle is used intensively. It is not for nothing that the springs are color-coded - this makes it much easier for a novice driver to find his way, who for the first time is engaged in the replacement of this element with his own hand. Buying products of the right quality, albeit at a higher price, will inevitably pay off with a softer ride, less wear and tear on the car, as well as less stress on the driver himself. It has been scientifically proven that high vibration loads on a person lead to rapid fatigue and a decrease in concentration when moving.
It is no secret that the quality of domestic roads leaves much to be desired, therefore, the serviceability and correct adjustment of all elements of the car suspension is an important factor in comfortable movement. One of the main components of the suspension is the springs, which provide the required body height above the roadway, as well as affect the carrying capacity and handling of the machine. The optimum level of stiffness of these elements is established by testing in different driving conditions, and the ideal spring force is equal to the value that prevents excessive body roll.
If the springs are selected correctly, then at any turns the body roll should be no more than two or three degrees, which is paid special attention to. Springs that are too soft can have a significant effect on driving. But how do you know the stiffness of the spring installed on your vehicle? This is exactly what will be discussed in this article.
1. How to determine the stiffness of the suspension spring?
To begin with, let's remember what an automobile spring is and what it is. This component of the suspension structure is presented in the form of an elastic element that softens shocks and shocks generated when driving on uneven road sections, because when you hit an obstacle, the wheel of the car breaks off the surface and loses control. In such cases, the task of the spring is to return it to its previous position as quickly as possible. Given that the wheel bounces back after impact, a soft spring is able to compress more strongly and absorb more energy than a rigid element. Since this energy is consumed slowly, the oscillations cannot decay quickly, being fed by more and more new shocks.
Another structural element of the automobile is called to solve this problem - a shock absorber, designed to accelerate the process of damping shocks by transforming the vibrations of the suspension and body into heat.
The stiffness of a spring is its ability to resist compression, which is also its main characteristic... An overly stiff spring will impair driving performance on uneven roads while increasing passenger discomfort. Too soft, on the contrary, dampens shocks well, but creates a large roll of the car when cornering. There are several factors that directly affect the stiffness indicator:
1. Rod diameter(the larger it is, the more rigidity will be);
2. Outside diameter of the spring(the larger it is, the lower the stiffness indicator will be);
3. Number of coils of the spring(more turns - less rigidity);
4. The shape of the spring. Distinguish between cylindrical, conical, barrel-shaped elements, each of which can have special characteristics. In addition, one spring is capable of combining several forms at once.
You can determine the stiffness of the springs installed on your car based on the product code or the applied marks in the form of stampings or paint markings (for example, the length of the spring is at least 230 mm, and if the product is marked with yellow marking, then it has a length of less than 240 mm). A hand press, floor scales and a measuring ruler (pressure force is measured in kilograms per centimeter) will also help you find out the value of stiffness.
To do this, a wooden block with a thickness of at least 12 mm is laid on the scales, the area of which will be greater than the area of the end of the spring, and the spring itself is installed on top of it. The upper end of the spring is covered with a second piece of wood and the length of the element is measured. Using a press, the spring is compressed to a specific value (for example, 40 mm) and the readings of the balance are recorded, thereby determining the rigidity of the part.
There is another way to determine the indicated value. Here, the suspension spring is considered to be a body of initial length, denoted by the letter "L", and undergoing tension or compression. According to Hooke's law for longitudinal deformation, changes in the body "x" are proportional to its initial length "L" and the applied force "F". That is, x = F * L / C, where "C" is the coefficient of proportionality and depends on the radius of the turns, the diameter of the wire and the material of the spring. Spring stiffness index- k = F / x = C / L or k * L = C ("C" is a constant).
2. How to properly check the suspension springs
Often, attention is paid to the suspension elements only when something rattles somewhere or the car begins to behave inadequately. However, any problem is easier to solve at the initial stage than to suffer with its consequences. In the case of suspension springs, the following signs may indicate their poor "health":
1. Frequent "breakdowns" of the suspension;
2. Decrease in the smoothness of the vehicle;
3. The appearance of vibration and shaking when driving;
4. A noticeable skew of the car or its draft;
5. A significant difference between the height of the front and rear of the machine;
6. Reduced ground clearance;
7. Pronounced traces of the interaction of the spring coils (noticeable when carrying out diagnostic procedures on the inspection pit or on the lift).
Why can the spring lose its former properties? At first, natural wear and tear and "fatigue" of the metal makes itself felt. Secondly, damage to the springs due to friction, full compression or contact with stones is possible. V -third, frequent overloading of the vehicle and overcoming uneven sections of the road at high speeds can lead to malfunctions of the springs, and metal corrosion, caused by an increased level of humidity and the influence of road reagents, completes the "black work".
If during inspection you notice damage to the coils of at least one of the springs, such a part must be replaced with a new element. It is also helpful to check the spring settling. For this, the part is compressed until the coils touch, after which a load of 295 kgf is applied. The spring is compressed along its axis, and the support surface must match the shock absorber and body support cup.
In addition, when performing diagnostics, pay attention to the condition of the spring gaskets: if they clearly show signs of wear, it is better to replace such elements immediately. With minor defects, you can still not change the spring, but it is imperative to replace it if:
- the part is broken (this usually happens in the upper or lower turns);
Corrosion or other damage to the metal is highly visible;
The height of the car has decreased (the distance between the center of the wheel and the edge of its arch is measured and compared, and on all four wheels);
The horizon of the vehicle is uneven (difference in height between the front and rear of the vehicle).
3. Tools for checking the suspension spring
To carry out a complete diagnosis of the suspension springs, you will need both conventional tools (wrenches and socket wrenches, screwdrivers, a hammer, etc.), as well as special spring pullers and ties. As for the latter, they greatly facilitate the task of dismantling, however, many motorists do an excellent job without them. If you are going to check the stiffness of the springs, then the previously mentioned floor scales, measuring tape, hand press and wooden blocks of a suitable size will not be superfluous.
