Selecting and installing a roof rack for a VAZ 2111 car

VAZ 2111 is a car with a station wagon body. Owners often use it for trips to the country, which usually involves transporting a significant amount of cargo, including oversized cargo. During such transportation, the presence of a roof rack is very helpful; fortunately, roof rails are provided for its installation on the VAZ 2111.

What to choose

Before moving directly to choosing a VAZ roof rack, it is important to clearly understand two points:

• what do you plan to transport;
• what is the mounting system of your car?

Depending on the purpose of transportation, there are:

1. Open trunks are suitable for transporting large, bulky or dirty cargo over short distances. They are a rectangular base with fastening elements. They are budget-friendly, but they reduce the aerodynamics of the car and, accordingly, increase fuel consumption.
2. Closed trunks - used for frequent long-distance trips and in cases where it is necessary to protect luggage from adverse conditions, moisture, dust, etc. They have the form of baskets or boxes - closed containers. One of the advantages is increased aerodynamics, and the disadvantage is high cost.
3. Specialized racks for transporting sports equipment (bicycles, skis, etc.) - narrow functionality. Most often it belongs to the middle price segment. Aerodynamics are reduced due to the specific shape of the load. The installation is noted to be difficult.

Depending on the mounting method, VAZ luggage racks are:

• standard – installed on recesses on the roof, according to the car manufacturer’s instructions;
• roof rails;
• integrated roof rails;
• attached to the doorway - this is how a roof rack is installed on the roof of a VAZ 2112, 2110;
• with mounting on a T-shaped profile;
• with fastening to the drain;
• on magnets - rare, has a relatively low load capacity;
• through the interior (inflatable trunk).

This does not limit the process of selecting a luggage rack. It is important to pay attention to the material of manufacture. You don't have to settle for soft metal car racks. Preference is given to steel types with galvanized coating or high-quality plastic.

Also, consider the manufacturer's reputation. And the option remains to make a VAZ roof rack yourself.

Eurodetail

One of the largest companies in the country for the production of luggage systems is Eurodetal. It has been on the market since 1998. Production is entirely based on the company’s own developments and uses materials only from Russian partners. The assortment is rich, there are luggage racks for almost any modern car.

On the roofs of many representatives of the “ten” class there is a Eurodetal car rack. For VAZ 2110, 2112 there are two options for open-type luggage systems of different materials: steel and aluminum.

The design consists of two rectangular crossbars, a support made of soft material so as not to scratch the car roof, and a mounting kit. Fastening occurs behind the doorway. Installation does not require special skills or specific tools. The price is affordable.

Ant

The Russian brand “Ant” is considered a budget option among car racks. Luggage systems of this brand are produced by. The target audience of the brand is owners of domestic cars, but there are also interesting options for lovers of foreign cars.

“Ant” is distinguished by high-quality materials and is famous for its versatility in fastening options.

For LADA 110, you can install the roof rack using fasteners behind the doorway. The luggage system for VAZ 2110, 2112 consists of a pair of rectangular arches made of steel and coated with plastic, special supports and fasteners. The ease of installation of Ant brand racks is noted.

Homemade trunk

You should not discount the possibility of independently manufacturing a removable roof rack for a VAZ 2112, 2110 car. It is easier for an inexperienced craftsman to start with the easiest option. For work you will need the following materials:

• metal profile, aluminum is more convenient;
• with already installed roof rails, to create a fastening system you will need clamps for the muffler - 4 pieces (if there are no roof rails yet, install them, more on that below);
• polyurethane foam;
• grinding machine;
• fiberglass;
• dye.

Let's move on to production:

1. We saw the crossbars. The length of the profiles must correspond to the width of the car body.
2. We cover the crossbars on all sides with a dense layer of foam.
3. We wait for the polyurethane foam to dry and grind it down with a grinding machine. Then we give the profile the necessary shape - first a regular parallelepiped, then we change it to improve aerodynamics (grind down the corners).
4. We wrap the “arcs” in several layers with fiberglass - from 3 layers.
5. Let's paint.
6. While we wait for it to dry, we make fasteners. We file the clamps from the bottom so that the plate becomes even.
7. We drill holes in the crossbars, two on each side (it is clear that they must be symmetrical). A prerequisite is that the space between the holes coincides with the “ears” of the clamp.
8. We attach the crossbars to the roof rails.

Installation

We install the trunk lid and all previously removed parts on the car in reverse order.

Introduction Camshaft Chip tuning Exhaust system Power unit protection Gearbox Shock absorbers and springs Suspensions Pedals Wheels and tires Replacing the steering wheel Locks and mirrors Steering shaft lock Electrical equipment Sound reproduction system

Car tuning Safety precautions Additional support Camshaft Chip tuning Exhaust system Final drive Suspension Steering wheel, wheels and tires Pedal covers Body External locks Installation of luggage racks Steering shaft lock Electrical equipment Sound reproduction system

How to install

To attach the trunk to a VAZ 2110 car, it is not necessary to visit a car service center. You can install the roof rack yourself. Procedure:

1. We install supports for further installation of transverse arches. It is important to check that the support fits onto the seal. Otherwise, there is a risk of damaging the car's paintwork.
2. Pull out the control knob. Carefully holding the support, turn the adjuster until the structure fits tightly to the machine. Do not overdo it so as not to deform the beam. We repeat this procedure with another support.
3. We check the geometry: it is necessary to secure the supports evenly. We monitor whether they lie tightly.
4. We install the cross members and check the geometry again.
5. We fix the box, mesh or other structure.

Fastening to gutters

Installing a roof rack on a VAZ 2110 using mounts for gutters is the most common type of fastener, typical mainly for domestic cars. Advantages:

• many options for trunk position;
• the ability to install several pairs of rack racks;
• the presence of a special type of luggage installations - baskets;
• versatility - suitable for almost all cars of the VAZ family.

Fastening to the doorway

Unlike the previous one, this mounting option is typical for foreign cars. But the installation of a trunk on a VAZ 2110 often occurs due to clamps behind the doorway.

The car trunk is secured thanks to profiled side bends. Fasteners are placed there, and the required level of structural stability is achieved due to the tightening device at the base of the trunk itself.

The advantages of this fastening system:

• versatility - suitable for most models;
• safety – high protection against removal.

Installation of roof rails

Most versions of car racks on the roof of a VAZ 2110 or 2112 can be installed without the use of roof rails. This design itself can play the role of a kind of trunk. Therefore, consider installing it. Before you take action, keep two things in mind:

1. It makes sense to install roof rails only if they are permanently on the roof of the car;
2. It is recommended to entrust the installation work to professionals.

If it is not possible to entrust the installation of roof rails to specialists, you can follow the instructions:

1. Preparation: thoroughly clean the roof from dirt, degrease the surface of the body, remove the ceiling trim in the cabin.
2. We drill holes in the body. It is important to clearly calculate the mounting locations for the roof rails.
3. We prepare the reinforcing plates. Any metal will do, thickness – 2 mm. We bend the plates to the shape of the tens of ceilings and fasten them with glue.
4. We install roof rails.

When installing, take into account:

• the first load can be transported on rails within a day from the moment of installation;
• regularly check how tightly the roof rails fit the car body;
• it is important to distribute luggage evenly throughout the installation;
• Do not exceed the load capacity of the roof rails.

The problem of lack of trunk space in the VAZ 2110 is easily solved. The main thing is to be able to choose a universal car rack, taking into account possible factors - from the purpose and frequency of cargo transportation to the type of fasteners.

Installing a trunk on the lid of a VAZ 2112

, 2111, 2110

Of course, there is no need to explain why the car has roof rack This device makes it possible to increase the volume of transported cargo. For example, if you are planning an active holiday, then it is impossible to install skis or sleds in the cabin, in which case roof rack But, if this car trunk is heavily fixed, it can be more than just bad.

In this case, you must always correctly and securely install the roof rack on the VAZ 2112

, 2111, 2110. First you need to purchase the rack you want. When choosing a roof rack, you need to carefully calculate the weight of the cargo that will be transported. It is very important to know what is made of galvanized steel. The plastic covering can be left on. There is no need to buy a trunk that is made of very soft material.

Such racks will soon lose their operational capabilities as they are thrown away. Under no circumstances can you buy these racks during assembly that you need to use some special tools. When luggage is purchased for VAZ 2112 , 2111, 2110, you need to take into account that there are no gaps on the roof for draining water, in which case it will be necessary to install a luggage rack

to the edge of the roof. First, you need to fix the two cross beams. To avoid damage to guests during installation. There is a possibility that the paint will damage the car's paint.

Removal

1. We prepare the car for repair work.

2. Remove the wire terminal from the negative terminal of the battery.

3. Remove the trunk shelf.

4. Using a Phillips screwdriver, unscrew the four self-tapping screws securing the right trunk trim and remove the trim.

5. Using the same screwdriver, unscrew the three screws of the lower fastening.

. and one self-tapping screw for the front mounting of the trunk shelf support.

6. Using a Phillips screwdriver, unscrew the self-tapping screw securing the lining of the trunk opening pillar.

7. Remove the cover seal from the top of the rear pillar.

8. Use a slotted screwdriver to pry up and remove the rear pillar trim (it is secured to two holders).

9. Using a puller or two slotted screwdrivers, remove the buttons of the three holders for the rear fastening of the ceiling trim.

10. Use a slotted screwdriver to pry up and remove the trim of the trunk opening pillar.

Helpful advice. Note or mark how the wiring harness is routed.

11. Disconnect the wiring harness connectors.

12. On the connector of the trunk lid wiring harness, mark the colors of the wires with a marker.

13. Using a thin slotted screwdriver, press the fixing protrusion of the terminal and pull the wire tip out of the connector. Similarly, disconnect all wires from the connector.

14. Remove the protective cover of the right wiring harness from the hole in the roof panel. Trying not to damage the insulation of the wires with the edges of the hole, pull the wires out.

15. Similarly, remove the wiring harness on the left side of the car.

16. Use a slotted screwdriver to remove the washer hose cover.

17. Pressing the rear edge of the headliner, disconnect the washer nozzle hose from the plastic adapter.

Note. Further operations are carried out with an assistant, who must perform similar actions on the other side of the trunk lid with the same tool.

18. While holding the cover, use a 13 mm open-end wrench to unscrew the ball pin of the upper fastening of the gas stop and disconnect it from the cover.

19. While holding the trunk lid, use a 13 mm spanner to unscrew the two bolts securing the lid to the hinge and remove the lid from the car.

20. If necessary, disassemble the trunk lid.

Why do you need a roof rack on a car?

A roof rack will definitely come in handy if you:

• started renovations and transport building materials yourself;
• moving, transporting a large number of things;
• are interested in active recreation, be it cycling, snowboarding, skiing, fishing, hunting, hiking, etc.

Trunk rail - a minimalist solution for avid travelers

Installing the trunk on the roof rails

The VAZ 2111 is equipped with roof rails installed during assembly at the factory. These are the so-called high rails, in their upper part spaced from the roof by about 6 cm. Installing the trunk on the rails in this case is not difficult, but if these elements were integrated, a special installation kit would be required to install the trunk. Many models of roof racks are suitable for installation on high roof rails, both from foreign manufacturers - for example, Thule (Sweden) or Nord (China), and domestic ones - Omega-Favorit (manufactured by the Ant rack) or Atlant (Atlant rack). The luggage carrier is supplied with two crossbars of rectangular or aerodynamic cross-section, made of steel or aluminum alloy, and two pairs of their fastenings to the roof rails of the VAZ 2111.

Types and photos of the most common designs

First, you need to decide on the type of roof rack that you need. There are several types of structures:

universal type trunk. It consists of several transverse slats and fixing brackets. Suitable for almost all car models: from the cargo “Sable” to the cool “Jeep”;

A universal roof rack with fastenings can be easily installed on a smooth car roof

Expedition racks are most often installed on SUVs

A bicycle rack is indispensable for nature and cycling lovers

A roof rack is the most convenient, but quite expensive option.

Before proceeding directly to the process, it should be noted that the car owner undertakes the manufacture of the trunk at his own peril and risk and he himself is responsible for the possible consequences.

Video: how to make a good trunk with your own hands

And it’s also worth paying attention to the fact that you are unlikely to need the trunk all the time, so you should think about making it removable and using it as needed.

Additional devices and devices

You can install automotive equipment on the expedition rack, which will provide the driver with additional comfort:

• installation of fog lights is allowed;
• you can make and install a branch guard: if you plan to travel into the forest, this will help protect the windshield;
• a second antenna on the trunk can be useful when traveling to remote places.

According to the rules of the traffic police, installing a trunk is not a modification of the car and does not require registration if, according to the design of a particular car model, crossbars or roof rails are installed on the roof for an additional luggage compartment.

Universal car trunk

It is better for an inexperienced craftsman to start with making the simplest type of trunk. In fact, there are two crossbars to be made. For this you will need:

• metal profile, for example, with dimensions of 20X30 mm and a wall thickness of 1.5–2.0 mm (ideally aluminum, since it is lighter);
• clamps for muffler - 4 pieces. With their help, the trunk will be attached to the roof (if there are roof rails);
• polyurethane foam;
• grinding machine;
• fiberglass with a density of 300 g/m2. m.;
• dye.

Step-by-step production

To make a trunk in accordance with the parameters of the car and securely attach it to the roof, follow the algorithm below:

1. First, we cut the crossbars. The length of the crossbars must correspond to the width of the car body.
2. We cover the crossbars with foam both inside and outside. The layer should be quite dense: this will allow the crossbars to be given the required shape at the next stage.
3. After the foam has dried, grind it off using a sanding machine. At the first stage, we give the profile the shape of a regular parallelepiped, and then we make design changes in order to improve aerodynamics, in particular, we grind down the corners.
4. Since the foam has a loose structure, the crossbars can be additionally covered with car putty - this will make their surface smoother.
5. We wrap the crossbars with fiberglass cloth in three layers.
6. Paint the crossbars and wait for them to dry.
7. At this time we will start making fasteners. In our case, we decided to take the path of least resistance and use muffler clamps. They need to be prepared - file the bottom of the clamp to create an even plate for a tighter fit.
8. We drill holes in the cross members. There should be two symmetrically located holes on each side. The distance between them should coincide with the “ears” of the clamp.
9. We attach the crossbars to the rails. To avoid damaging the crossbars with clamps, rubber gaskets can be placed at the points of their contact.

Expeditionary trunk type "basket"

The technology for manufacturing an expeditionary trunk will be much more complicated. In this case, you will need to first draw up a drawing. In addition, you cannot do without a welding machine and the ability to handle metal.

Mesh base - a practical solution for expedition luggage

Construction drawing

Let's take a homemade trunk for a Chevrolet Niva as an example. The length of the trunk will be 163 cm, width - 123 cm. To make an expedition trunk, you will need a metal profile 15X15 (approx. 9 linear meters), 20X20 (approx. 7 linear meters), 25X25 (approx. 7 linear meters) and 30X20 (approx. 6 p.m.).

It’s quite possible to make an expedition rack for Niva using this drawing yourself

Sequence of actions of the wizard:

1. We start making the trunk from the base: we cook the perimeter. Longitudinal guides are made from profile 30X20, transverse jumpers are made from profile 20X20.
2. We weld load-bearing lintels from a 30X20 profile into the perimeter. For them the platform will be attached to the rails.
3. We reduce the distance between the load-bearing jumpers by welding additional transverse ones from the 20X20 profile.
4. We make an arc that will be located in front in order to improve aerodynamics: we measure 5 cm from the edges of the profile and cut out a triangular sector, after which we bend the profile. We weld the arc on the outside of the perimeter.
5. To increase the strength of the structure, we fasten the jumpers together with sections of 15X15 profile. If desired, non-load-bearing lintels can be replaced with metal mesh or stainless steel sheets.
6. We make the sides. We cut the profile into pieces 6–10 cm long and weld it to the base. If desired, they can be mounted on a thread - then the sides and the upper part of the trunk can be removed.
7. It was the turn of the top crossbar. It should be the same size as the bottom one, but the side crossbars should be slightly shorter, and the posts connecting them to the base should be angled to improve aerodynamics.
8. We fasten the trunk in a manner similar to that described above. An important point: to evenly distribute the weight, the expedition rack should be secured to six points.

If the car does not have roof rails, you will have to make the supports yourself from a piece of sheet metal. You can put it on brackets, but to do this you will have to drill into the body.

The expedition trunk has increased functionality compared to a regular trunk. For example, you can attach fog lights to it - just weld the headlight mounting bracket to the inclined connecting element at the front (see point 7).

In addition, it is convenient to carry a shovel in the expedition trunk. It can be secured using a conventional pipe fastener.

Video: fastening the structure to an SUV

Roof rack: pros and cons

We have already started talking above about the benefits that roof racks provide to car owners. Now let's look at them in more detail.

Advantages of the design

There are many advantages of a roof rack:

• The most obvious benefit is, of course, the extra space for things. So, on the roof you can easily place three bicycles or everything you need for outdoor recreation - a tent, inflatable boat, fishing equipment, etc. And the capacity of seemingly quite compact boxes can be up to 300–800 liters;
• it becomes possible to transport non-standard, for example, very long loads (such as ladders, boards, pipes, etc.);
• due to the fact that part of the luggage is moved to the roof, it becomes much freer, more comfortable and safer in the cabin;
• Due to the roof rack, the load is distributed more evenly. So, if all the cargo is in the trunk, the car “sags”. This reduces ground clearance and creates a risk of rollover.

Possible problems

Along with obvious advantages, car roof racks have a number of disadvantages:

• they, as a rule, negatively affect the aerodynamic properties of the car. An irregularly shaped trunk will create additional resistance to air flow, which means the stability of the car will also suffer. This may also cause additional noise.
• a car with a roof rack significantly increases its height, which means it will not be able to drive along sections of the road where appropriate restrictions have been established.
• the trunk itself, even empty, weighs from 1.5 to 15 kg or more, which increases the overall weight of the car and, consequently, fuel consumption. According to some estimates, an unloaded trunk increases gasoline consumption by 0.2 liters per 100 km in urban conditions.

So, you have found out what kinds of car roof racks there are, got acquainted with their advantages and disadvantages, and found out how to make some of them yourself. Now you don’t have to rack your brains about how to place all the tents, spinning rods, backpacks and other equipment in the car - all of this will have a place on the roof of the car. All you have to do is relax and enjoy your vacation. Good luck on the roads!

Ways to increase transported volumes

If you have a large load in mind (for example, a bicycle, skis, some kind of construction tool), then remember that there are several ways to add the necessary transport volume to your car. So:

• Car trailer
• Screw an additional trunk behind the car
• Screw a car rack onto the roof of a VAZ 2112

However, the option with a trailer has a bunch of disadvantages:

• To use a trailer, firstly, you need to have a towbar on your car.
• In addition, you will not only have to purchase a trailer, but also draw up documents for it
• It’s also worth remembering that your trailer will need to be stored somewhere, and the street is not exactly a suitable place for this purpose (therefore, it is advisable to immediately have a spacious garage)
• Therefore, the trailer is a good solution for those who constantly need to transport large loads

The second example is that the rear trunk is also not very popular:

• Firstly, without removing it, you cannot access a regular trunk
• Secondly, the load on the rear wheels and rear axle of your car increases, and its dimensions increase, which must be taken into account when maneuvering on the road
• In most cases, it is suitable for fastening sports equipment (snowboards, bicycles, or skis); closed storage boxes are rarely attached to it
• The photo below is a great example of this type of rack.

Example - rear trunk

• It really has its advantages, like a low center of gravity and ease of loading

Finally, roof racks for the VAZ 2112 car, according to their application, they are divided into three groups:

• Dacha-economic
• Sports
• Closed type (car box)

The dacha type involves the delivery of goods over a short distance, both from home and to the dacha:

• In this case, the aerodynamics of the car do not matter

Car roof rack option

• Putting a long load (like boards or a ladder) on the roof of a car is no longer a problem, but it is worth considering that your center of gravity will be at the top

For cyclists, skiers and snowboarders, transporting sports equipment in a car is a common case, so its design must be both easy to attach and, in addition, mobile for loading. For them the following category:

• Designed for long trips or a simpler luggage rack for vacations

And when it matters that the load that will be carried outside of your body does not affect the handling of the car, then you should choose a car box:

• A car box is a sealed box that is installed on the roof of a car.
• A similar roof rack for the VAZ 2112 is a simple and at the same time reliable solution to increase the capacity of the car (add about 350-450 liters)
• In addition, it is absolutely indispensable if it is necessary to transport cargo that requires careful handling or reliable protection from the effects of such negative factors as moisture or dust and other environmental influences.
• Carrying cargo will become much more enjoyable for you, not only for you, but also for your passengers.
• ABS plastic is used in the manufacture of car boxes. Boxing causes virtually no noise or resistance to air flow when moving at good speed.
• This type of trunk very reliably covers luggage from dust, raindrops, snow and from prying eyes.
• An additional advantage of such a box is the ability to transport dirty equipment (such as clothes and shoes after fishing, a wet rubber boat or tent), while keeping the interior and trunk of the car clean, an example is given below
• Its price is justified by its quality and useful properties.

Boxing on the roof of a car

• Installing a car box on the roof with your own hands is not difficult, it usually takes no more than ten minutes of time
• On VAZ cars, all types of roof racks are usually attached to roof rails (longitudinal arches), which are usually included in the factory equipment
• If there are no roof rails on the VAZ 2112, then you will have to install them yourself, here you need another instruction, or a different type of fastening
• We have analyzed each of the options, their advantages and disadvantages.
• Most often, racks for bicycles or skis are mounted on the roof of the car and much less often in the rear.
• And if you are planning to go on vacation by car, then it is better to buy a box
• In addition, you should know that the sunroof of the car, which can be used to transport long luggage