What do the colored marks on the springs mean? How to understand the markings

At the stage of manufacturing car suspension springs, the last operation is to control the static load. Springs that do not fall within the tolerance are rejected, and the rest, depending on the obtained control load value, are divided into 2 classes. Springs with a positive load tolerance range belong to class A, and those with a minus tolerance – to class B. In this case, the suspension springs are marked with paint (a stripe is applied with a spray on the outside of the coils) corresponding to the class.

They are marked according to hardness as follows: A – standard (hard); B – soft.

Color coding of springs by stiffness for VAZ

What to put?

Most of the springs installed on cars are marked with green (hard) or yellow paint (soft). The question arises: which ones to install, hard or not? Of course, class A or B springs have an equal right to exist. The division into classes was adopted to reduce the difference in the length of the springs on the right and left sides of the car - this is inevitable in mass production - which negatively affects handling and stability.

It is recommended to install only springs of the same class on the car. Of course, in some cases, it is allowed to install class A springs in the front suspension, and class B springs in the rear suspension. But, on the contrary, it is not possible. If you often drive with a full load, you should choose class A springs, because... They can withstand a little more load. You should know that the difference is insignificant and can range from 0 to 25 kilograms.

One of the frequently asked questions to online store managers is: “which springs are best to install”, “what does the yellow mark mean?” I will try to bring a little clarity to these questions and perhaps there will be some room for thought.

First, let's figure out what a suspension spring is, and at first glance, what such a simple element as a spring can influence. Many people do not pay any attention to the wear of this element, but this is not surprising because it does not require any adjustment or repair. kits and specials care But few people understand that springs are not all the same and their difference is not only in stiffness. There are 5 types of suspension springs, but we will not go that far into the structure of springs and their capabilities; we will consider the most common spring options, standard ones, those that are installed on VAZ, ZAZ, GAZ, AZLK cars.

Some VAZ models are equipped with so-called “barrel” springs to increase rolling resistance. Springs with variable coil pitch were also installed, but much less frequently, which ensured optimal stability with low loads, such as lateral roll, sudden braking, and acceleration. And the rigidity increased proportionally, which eliminated suspension breakdowns and maintained driving comfort over uneven surfaces.

Standard springs that were installed on VAZ, ZAZ, GAZ, AZLK cars are the best option for installation, we will consider them in detail. The production of springs is a rather complex process, step by step it can be divided into: heating and winding a rod made of rolled spring steel, from which the decarbonized layer has been removed by grinding or turning, then they are quenched in oil, the next stage is cold upsetting, then a protective layer is applied (in this case rear and front springs can be coated with different protective mixtures) and the final stage is quality control inspection, after which a stiffness class is assigned (a positive load tolerance zone refers to class “A” (usually a yellow mark), with a negative one – to “B” (green mark)). At the same time, apply the color designation of the corresponding class to the spring. Standard color marking for VAZ, ZAZ, GAZ, AZLK for front springs on the black spring is a green or yellow mark, which correspond to the stiffness class. On the rear springs, slightly different markings are used: on a white spring the same green and yellow marks are placed, but for springs with an increased length such as 2102, 2104, blue and brown (red) markings are used.

Main varieties

Before we begin to consider the types of springs for cars, let’s briefly remember why they are needed. When moving over uneven surfaces, the car should remain soft. Otherwise, the trip will be no different from traveling by cart. To ensure comfort, automakers equip vehicles with suspension.

In fact, comfort when using the suspension is an added bonus. The primary purpose of springs in a car is transport safety. When a wheel hits an obstacle at speed, such as a bump, the shock absorber softens the impact. However, to prevent the car from losing traction with the road surface, the wheel must be quickly returned to a hard surface.

More details about why a car needs springs are described in this video:

What are car springs used for?

Springs are needed for this purpose. But if only they are used in vehicles, even a small bump at speed will cause the car to sway violently, which will also lead to loss of traction. For this reason, springs in modern vehicles are used in conjunction with shock absorbers.

The classification of all springs for cars is as follows:

1. Standard. Such an automobile element is installed by the manufacturer when assembling the model on the conveyor. This variety corresponds to the technical characteristics specified in the technical documentation of the machine.
2. Strengthened version. These springs are stiffer than the factory counterpart. This type is perfect for vehicles used in rural areas, since the springs in this case will experience more load. Also, such modifications are equipped with cars that often transport cargo and tow a trailer.
3. Increasing spring. In addition to increased ground clearance, such springs increase the vehicle's load-carrying capacity.
4. Lowering springs. This type is usually used by sports driving enthusiasts. A lowered car has a center of gravity closer to the road, which increases aerodynamics.

Despite the fact that each modification has its own differences, they are all manufactured using special technology.

A few important tips when searching for the right products

You can always find tips to help you cope with problems. There are several questions from Russian car enthusiasts that have answers. For example, the question is VAZ 2114 – what should I buy? Answer: It all depends on where the machine is used. If it is mainly used for off-road use, then it is better to take the 2112 model as it can increase the ground clearance.

Actually, when it comes to springs for cars, there are quite a few different options. Therefore, it is best to first seek advice from an intelligent and experienced specialist before making a replacement.

Selection of springs VAZ 2114

Manufacturing Features

Most machine parts are manufactured using a specific technology, so they comply with standards. However, in the case of spring production there is a slight subtlety. The manufacturing process of a part can involve operations that are often difficult to control.

For this reason, companies involved in the mass production of car springs cannot create identical parts. After leaving the assembly line, each spare part from this category is tested for rigidity. After comparing with the standard, specialists apply special marks to the products. Marking allows you to classify each product into groups, which are mentioned a little higher.

Interesting

Very often, class A and B markings are also called hardness markings. Indeed, if you need to regularly travel with a full load, then it is better to use class A, as they can withstand a slightly larger load. However, this difference is small and amounts to approximately 25 kg.

Manufacturers do not always apply markings in accordance with the requirements of current standards. However, the color marking of the spring, assigning it to a certain class, must be applied. Moreover, it must be the same on both springs purchased, matching each other in color. If there is no such color marking, then it is better to refrain from purchasing them.

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Why is color coding required?

The mark placed on the product will help the motorist select a modification that meets his needs. If you install springs of different stiffnesses on a car, the body will not be parallel to the road. In addition to the unaesthetic appearance, this is fraught with instability during driving - one part of the car will be depreciated in a mode different from the other side of the vehicle.

The same applies to the height of the products. In this case, of course, the size of the parts is often compared. To speed up the process of sorting products, manufacturers apply a color mark to all products that corresponds to specific technical characteristics.

Differences between springs depending on their markings

If the paint designation indicates the rigidity of the part, and this parameter may vary depending on what raw materials the manufacturer uses, then the diameter of the threads must exactly correspond to the requirements of the automaker. Everything else remains at the discretion of the company fulfilling the order for the production of these products.

At the factory they can:

• Use blanks of different diameters. Automakers also allow the creation of springs with varying diameters within acceptable limits. For example, the initial turns may be thinner than the main turns.
• Change the height of the springs, as well as create parts that are identical in size, but have a different stiffness parameter.
• Change the number of turns and the distance between them, while taking into account the outer diameter required by the automaker. Regardless of the interturn distance, the element can be either soft or hard.

A simple procedure helps determine the conformity of the finished product to the manufacturer. The spring is compressed with a specific force and the height is measured in this state. If the product does not fit within the framework established by the car manufacturer, the part is considered defective.

Based on such control, suitable products are also divided into two classes - A and B. The first class is products whose length, when compressed with a certain force, is maximum (within the limits of the manufacturer's data for specific cars). The second class corresponds to the lower limit of the same parameter.

All products that fall into a specific class receive their own designation. Paint is used for this. For models of the VAZ family, the class A color marker will be represented in yellow, orange, white and brown.

However, the same classic can also be equipped with springs included in the second category. In this case, they will be distinguished by green, black, blue and blue.

ATV trailer: buy or make it yourself

In addition to color, an important indicator of an autospring is the diameter of the structure. It is determined not by the manufacturer himself, but by the car company that designs the car model. The executor of orders for the release of springs cannot independently make any changes. All parameters are calculated and verified in advance. This will allow the car to further meet the automaker’s promises in terms of comfort, safety, ground clearance and other indicators to which springs are directly related.

Classification of suspension springs by color

To choose the right spring for your car, the motorist must pay attention not only to the markings in the form of colored stripes applied to the outer side of the coils. An important factor is also the color of the spring itself.

Some people think that the coloring of these parts serves only a protective function (the paint is actually applied to prevent the formation of metal corrosion). In fact, first of all, this is done so that neither the motorist nor the auto parts seller makes a mistake in choosing a part.

Thus, the color of the spring body indicates the model of the car, as well as the installation location - rear or front element. Typically, the front spring for VAZ family cars is painted black, and the coils are marked accordingly, which will indicate the degree of stiffness.

There are also blue modifications with variable interturn spacing. For classics, such parts can be placed on the front part of the suspension.

Here is a small table of what color a specific spring will be designated for some VAZ models. Class A indicated in the table is a hard characteristic, and class B is a soft one. The first part is marking the stiffness of the front elements:

The second part presents the rear spring stiffness markings:

How to use springs according to their class

The car suspension must be equipped with springs that are of the same stiffness class. Many parts have yellow or green markers applied to them. In the first case, it will be a soft element, and in the second, a standard or more rigid one for difficult operating conditions.

The motorist can completely freely choose both soft and hard springs. The main thing is not to install springs of different classes on the left and right parts of the car. This will affect the vehicle's roll when cornering, which may result in an accident or reduce the vehicle's handling and stability.

Ideally, it is better that the front and rear springs do not differ in class. As an exception, it is allowed to install softer ones on the rear of the car, and harder ones on the front. On the contrary, it is prohibited, since the engine compartment of the car is heavy, and rocking of the front part of the vehicle is not allowed. This is especially fraught in the case of front-wheel drive models.

If a motorist installs different springs on the sides, in addition to the handling characteristics already mentioned, the weight of the vehicle will not be evenly distributed on all sides. In this case, the suspension and chassis will experience additional loads. This will accelerate the wear of some parts.

Special alloy steel spring wire

according to GOST 14963-78

Designed for the manufacture of springs subjected to heat treatment (hardening and tempering) after winding.

Wire is divided: according to the manufacturing method and the quality of surface finishing into groups: with special surface finishing by removing the surface layer - A, B, C, D, E; without special surface finishing H; by manufacturing accuracy: normal accuracy; increased accuracy P; by purpose: for cold coil springs XN; for hot coil springs GN; according to mechanical properties, surface quality into classes: 1 - for springs for critical purposes; 2 - for general purpose springs

Nominal wire diameters, mm: 0.5; 0.56; 0.60; 0.63; 0.71; 0.80; 0.90; 1.10; 1.20; 1.25; 1.30; 1.40; 1.50; 1.60; 1.80; 2.0; 2.20; 2.50; 2.80; 3.00; 3.20; 3.50; 3.80; 4.00; 4.20; 4.50; 4.80; 5.00; 5.50; 5.60; 6.00; 6.20; 6.30; 6.50; 7.00; 7.10; 7.50; 8.00; 8.50; 9.00; 9.50; 10.00; 11.00; 11.20; 11.50; 12.00; 12.50; 13.00; 14.00

Wire of groups A, B, C, D should be made with a diameter of 1 - 14 mm, wire of groups E, H - with a diameter of 0.5 - 14.0 mm

An example of the designation of wire made of steel grade 51HFA, with a special surface finish, polished, group A of increased precision, class I for cold coil springs, with a diameter of 1.80 mm: Wire 51HFA -A - P- I -HN -1.80 GOST 14963- 78

Technical requirements

The wire must be made of steel grades 51ХФ 60С2А, 65С2ВА, 70СЗА in accordance with GOST 14959-79. The temporary tensile strength of the wire for cold coil springs should be no more than 1029.5 MPa. Wire made of steel grade 51HFA on heat-treated samples must have a temporary tensile strength of at least 1470 MPa, a relative narrowing after breaking of at least 40%. Wire of groups A, B, C, D must be manufactured in rods; wire of groups E, H - in coils

Class “A” and “B” - significant differences

For many motorists, the decoding of hardness by color is identical to the classification by class. In short, the A-class is a stiffer option, regardless of the color of the spring coils, and the B-class is a softer option in the same color. The color of the coils helps not to confuse the springs of the main group. They should always be the same color. But small color stripes indicate a subgroup, or hardness class - A or B in a particular group.

When choosing new springs, you should pay attention to the markings. There are no significant differences between the classes. The main thing is that to compress a type A spring to a certain height, you will need 25 kilograms more than an analogue of type B. If there is no marker on the spring, it is better not to buy such a part. The exception is parts that are not marked (they are indicated in the table).

In addition to safety, a car equipped with high-quality springs will become more comfortable. Such a vehicle makes the ride smoother, which has a positive effect on the driver’s well-being during long trips.

Carbon steel spring wire according to GOST 9389-75

The standard applies to cold-drawn carbon steel wire used for the manufacture of cold-wound springs that are not quenched. The wire is manufactured: according to mechanical properties: grades A, B, C; classes 1, 2, 2A, 3; by manufacturing accuracy: normal accuracy; increased accuracy P. Wire of classes 1, 2, 3 is manufactured with normal and increased accuracy, class 2A - increased accuracy

Recommendations for the use of spring wire according to GOST 9389

Note The relative strength run-up index K is calculated using the formula K = ΔσВ / σВ, where ΔσВ is the run-up of temporary tensile strength, N/mm2; σB - minimum value of tensile strength in class, N/mm2

Examples of designations: Wire grade A, class 1, increased accuracy, diameter 1.20 mm: Wire A-1-P-1.20 GOST 9389-75 The same, grade B, class 3, normal accuracy, diameter 2.00 mm :Wire B-3-2.00 GOST 9389-75

Mechanical properties of spring wire according to GOST 9389-90

Wire diameters (according to GOST 9389) and theoretical weight 1000 m

Properties of suspension springs

For car springs, there is such a thing as fatigue, and they sag. This means that the distance between turns becomes smaller over time. Because of this, part of the car begins to sag. In such cases, the part must be replaced.

If the springs are not replaced, this may have the following consequences:

• When the rear part sag, the carrying capacity of the vehicle is reduced, and on large bumps the soft suspension will not protect against impact, for example, with a muffler on the ground;
• On the same bumps, the wheels will begin to rub against the wheel arch protection;
• The shock absorber will wear out faster, and if it subsides too much, the part may break through, since the piston will often collide with the base of the liner with oil;
• Failure of the shock absorber will also negatively affect the body elements - most often in this case the fastening suffers;
• Old springs may have a coil that breaks, causing the car to lose control.

Depending on the operating conditions, car springs can be maintained for five to ten years, but if you constantly drive over potholes, these parts may require replacement even earlier. There are cases when such elements have not been looked after for even three years.

In addition to natural compression loads, pebbles can fly out from under the wheel while driving on the road. When they hit the spring, they can cause paint chips. Exposed metal will be subject to an oxidation reaction, which will also reduce the life of the part.

Previously, torsion bars were used as dampers on cars. Thanks to the use of springs, vehicles have become more comfortable and their handling has improved.

To choose the right springs for your car, you need to pay attention to the following factors:

1. The thicker the rod from which the spring is made, the stiffer the product will be;
2. The stiffness parameter also depends on the number of turns - the more there are, the softer the suspension;
3. Not every spring shape is suitable for a particular vehicle. Non-compliance with the parameters specified by the vehicle manufacturer can lead to discomfort (for example, while driving, a large spring will rub against the fender liner), and sometimes even worsen handling.

Don't buy the stiffest springs. They improve steering response, but reduce traction. On the other hand, softer analogues will create a lot of inconvenience for country roads. For these reasons, first of all, you need to start from which roads the car is driven on most often.

Independent spring block - what is it?

The independent spring block is a unique design assembled using pocket technology. Each cylindrical, double-cone or barrel-shaped spring is placed in a special pocket, which completely eliminates contact between metal parts. The wire spirals do not touch each other and the compression of one does not affect the others located nearby. The result of using pocket-type technology is the absence of metallic squeaks when moving during sleep and a point distribution of the load on the surface of the mattress. It does not bend like a hammock, which does not disturb the person lying next to it.

Correspondence of spring markings to the model

Let's look at what springs need to be used in specific models of the VAZ automaker:

• Springs 2101 are intended only for “penny”;
• A more rigid modification is marked 21012. They are made from thicker rods, which makes the products stronger than the previous analogue. They are installed on classics, which require a more energy-intensive suspension;
• Springs with symbols 2102 are intended for station wagons models 2102 and 21014. Compared to previous modifications, these parts are two centimeters longer. They can be installed on a sedan, but only if the car is used in rural areas. Such springs slightly increase the vehicle's ground clearance. However, they cannot be installed to enable the vehicle to carry heavier loads than those intended by the manufacturer. Otherwise, the body will have to be repaired very soon.
• The designation 2108 is given to parts intended for front-wheel drive VAZ cars. The exception is Oka and models with a 16-valve engine. It is worth considering that these same springs are also intended for 21099. There are no separate springs for this model, so the seller’s offer to purchase “originals” for the 99th is nothing more than an attempt to sell standard parts at a higher cost.
• Elements from European manufacturers marked 2110 are intended for models starting with 21102 and ending with 21104, as well as for VAZ-2112 and 2114. The European version makes the car 2 centimeters lower, but makes it more controllable at high speeds. You should not use such parts on vehicles that often travel on dirt roads and rough terrain.
• Modifications 2111 are intended for rear suspensions of models with identical markings, as well as VAZ-2113.
• Springs from category 2112 are intended for the front part of the suspension of the following models: 21113, 21103 and 2112.
• All-wheel drive vehicles of the VAZ family are equipped with 2121 springs.

Symptoms of a problem

Which springs are better to install on VAZ 2114 and 2115 in case of malfunction. First you need to decide in what cases this is required. The most common reason for replacement is breakdowns. The malfunction can be identified by the following signs:

• The machine is skewed in any direction. Often the cause is broken turns;

Upon inspection, mechanical damage is visible; The car rocks, and quite sharply.

In case of any such problem, it is necessary to promptly replace the part. If this is not done, you will have problems driving the car. Also, do not forget to change the springs in pairs. When installing new springs from another manufacturer, it is recommended to do this in a circle.

Most often, drivers do not bother with the selection of parts and simply buy ordinary stock spare parts. Overall, this is a good option. They last quite a long time and cost little. But there is one caveat here. The original springs are quite soft, which makes the car not very stable when cornering. This doesn't suit speed lovers too much. Also, original parts don't handle a full vehicle load very well.

In this case, they sag. If you often carry large groups or the trunk is constantly loaded, then it is better to choose something more rigid.

Choice depending on manufacturer

When choosing new springs to replace worn-out springs, many motorists often opt for original spare parts. However, similar products can be found in the assortment of other manufacturers, which have good reviews from those who have already used a similar product.

Here is a small list of the most famous manufacturers of quality springs:

• Sirius is a domestic company whose product range includes a large selection of products for different car models. All products sold correspond to the drawings provided by the customer.
• Phobos is another well-known manufacturer that offers a large selection of not only standard springs, but also backlash complexes that allow you to change the vehicle’s ground clearance depending on need. True, reviews from many users are not in favor of the manufacturer. The reason for this is the short service life of the products, regardless of the stiffness of the springs.
• "Tehnoressor" - the company offers budget products. Over time, these springs lose their stiffness, but do not sag. The brand mainly produces standard elements for pendants.
• The list of European manufacturers is opened by Koni. The Dutch manufacturer produces high-quality elements for suspensions of any vehicle, regardless of whether it is a Japanese or domestic car. The peculiarity of this product is that many parts have manual adjustment of rigidity. The driver himself can set the desired ground clearance by moving the thumbwheel to the appropriate position on the rack.

• Another European manufacturer is the German company Eibach, whose product range includes a wide variety of various parts for suspensions and chassis of cars. It is worth considering that the products of this company are very expensive, but the quality of the products compensates for the waste. Springs rarely burst, do not lose their rigidity for a long time, and do not sag.

• The SS20 company was founded in 1993, and today it provides a large selection of suspension spare parts for any domestic vehicle, as well as for many foreign cars. According to the manufacturer, the stiffness of each spring is checked on a special stand, based on which a pair is selected for the product. Thanks to this, the purchased set will consist of identical springs. In addition to a model of a specific class, the car owner can choose a product that differs in manufacturing technology.
• Kilen is an excellent replacement for standard VAZ springs. According to the manufacturer, the original spare part costs half as much as the products they offer.

• The springs have excellent resistance to heavy loads. For this purpose, special metal alloys are used, which after certain processing do not burst, and also do not sag over the years. To extend the service life of products, the manufacturer coats the springs with a special material that includes epoxy resin.

In addition to the above, we offer a short video on how to determine that the springs need to be replaced:

When to change springs.

When to change?

Let me refer to quotes from the forums: look at how your lower control arm is relative to the ground, measure the distance from the edge of the wheel to the arch, and the like. Of course, there is some truth in all this, BUT these are all consequences. We need to look at the reason, that is, at the spring itself. The next legitimate question is: where to look? The photo shows springs from the same car, one side before replacing the springs, the other after.

when to change springs?