Classic Niva
For all its popularity, the Niva 2121 has a number of disadvantages. One of the most common problems with this SUV is increased vibration in the cabin. Moreover, the more the car is used, the more noticeable the vibration becomes.
The reason for the increased vibration is a structurally incorrect solution for securing the transfer case (transfer case). The fact is that this box on the Niva is attached directly to the bottom using silent blocks. And since during operation the vibration of the transfer case is significant, all this is transmitted to the cabin.
As a result, strong vibration affects the transmission and it wears out faster. Although the metal of the bottom in the area where the transfer case is attached is reinforced, due to strong vibration, the bottom is destroyed over time due to exposure to vibration.
Often, Niva 2121 owners, in order to reduce vibration in the cabin, install a subframe under the transfer case. This device is made of metal. The Niva subframe absorbs any vibration impact from the transfer case.
The subframe has enough advantages:
- Receives the oscillatory movements of the transfer case.
- Protects its body from possible damage when driving off-road.
- When installed correctly, there is virtually no displacement of the axis between the transfer case and the gearbox, which has a positive effect on the durability of both transmission units, as well as cardan and intermediate shafts.
Benefits of use
A device such as a subframe has many advantages, the main one of which, as we have already noted, is the reduction of noise and vibrations in the cabin. In addition, this device is the only protection for the lower part of the transfer case.
By the way, on the conveyor the Niva is already equipped with special fastenings to the floor, which allow mounting supports on the transfer case. Thus, installing a transfer case subframe on a Niva will take the car enthusiast no more than 30 minutes. Another thing is to make this part yourself (in this case, the work can take several days). However, why is the car not initially equipped with such a device? To answer this question, let's consider the main disadvantages of the mentioned device.
Manufacturing and installation technology
To independently manufacture a subframe for the transfer case of a Niva car, you will need a certain set of tools and materials. The ideal option would be to carry out the work using a milling machine, but in the absence of one, we will have to use all our natural ingenuity and stock up on a lot of patience.
Tools and materials
In addition to the mandatory protective equipment for hands and face (strong gloves, goggles or mask), you will need a set of tools:
- large and small angle grinder (grinder);
- powerful electric drill;
- corner ruler;
- calipers;
- center punch;
- hammer.
Required Tools
First of all, prepare a large and small grinder (angle grinder), a drill (preferably not a battery-powered one), calipers, a roller, a hammer, a ruler, as well as protective equipment to prevent hot metal shavings from getting into your eyes while working with a grinder. All work should be carried out according to a certain scheme (you can see a drawing of the Niva 2121 transfer case subframe in the photo below).
So where to start? First you need to measure and process the base edge of the channel. After this, use a ruler to measure the required distances from it. Windows in the device must be cut out with a small and large grinder in the transverse and longitudinal direction, respectively. The length of the cut should not extend beyond 8 millimeters from the edge of the top flange of the structure. After the windows are cut out, the contours of the sidewalls should be processed and chamfered.
[?]. HELP. Selecting a transfer case subframe (RK). — Lada 4×4 3D, 1.7 l., 2022 on DRIVE2
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In view of the upcoming changes in the car, I began to analyze the spare parts market. There are so many different options – it’s very difficult to sort through. At the moment I am choosing the RK subframe. There are two, as I understand it, most common options on the Internet:
1). Techno Sphere
Full size
2). Niva Comfort
, aka (Comfort Plus)
These subframes are attached in completely different ways - they have a different number of attachment points and a different number of damping elements - silent blocks.
DIFFERENCES:
-The techno-sphere is attached to the spar, through mortgages in the spar profile on 4 sides. These attachment points themselves are rigid, since they are attached metal to metal without dampers. -Techno-sphere has 4 or 5 attachment points
(depending on the Niva modification). -Out of these 4 (or 5) attachment points, all are rigid. -The transfer case hangs on 3 pillows with silent blocks.
-Niva-comfort is attached through slats, which are installed on the floor plane through silent block pillows. -Niva Comfort has 3 or 4 attachment points
(depending on the Niva modification). -Of these 3 (or 4) attachment points, three are soft (one is hard). -The distribution box itself, just like the Techno Sphere, hangs on 3 pillows.
Full size
Full size
Full size
Which subframe is better to choose (without taking into account the price)? I believe that the Techno-Sphere is a tougher option, but more durable, and the Niva Comfort is the opposite. Who thinks so? I'm waiting for your opinion. Thanks for the advice.
We install transfer case subframes on the Niva Comfort SUV: where is the protection attached?
It is mounted on the corners at the bottom of the device. As for the type of connection, it, similar to the two options listed above, is bolted. However, the holes in the body of the side parts of the device and the lower part of the corners are made according to the threaded principle. The protective sheet is part of the load-bearing structure, which forms a kind of box and gives the subframe greater strength. Accordingly, the box will be less vulnerable to various mechanical damage, which will have a positive effect on the Niva’s cross-country ability.
Additional holes
An additional window is cut under the drain plug to drain the oil. You can drill holes in any place convenient for you, without bothering with the accuracy of the markings. Car enthusiasts also make technological windows to drain the water formed between the sidewalls of the channel and the dirt that gets there. The protection is enhanced by corners that are attached to the box support and the frontal part of the entire device. This design will protect the transfer case from all kinds of impacts on stumps, ditches and other obstacles that can lead to deformation of the subframe.
Preparation.
1. After the initial preparation of the elements, finishing processing and connection into a single structure is carried out: 1. In the channel, in accordance with the diagram, rectangular windows are cut out, ending no closer than 0.8 cm to the edge of the edge. Bevels (chamfers) are eliminated;
2. In corners measuring 70x50 or 70x70, holes are made for bolted connections, after which they are tacked by welding.
3. Corners of 35x35 cm are fixed to the lower edge of the channel, to which sheets are welded to protect against impacts and dirt. In the latter, for the purpose of access to the drain plug and regular cleaning, service holes are cut out.3. Corners of 35x35 cm are fixed to the lower edge of the channel, to which sheets are welded to protect against impacts and dirt. In the latter, service holes are cut out in order to gain access to the drain plug and regular cleaning.
How can you improve your device for extreme driving?
In this case, you can change the profile of the sidewalls of the device, which will make it flatter and more durable. The corners are welded not only to the transfer case brackets, but also to the side shelves of the channel. They are also attached inside the last element. At the end you should have a frame of four corners. This design makes it possible to cut the sidewalls of the channel to fit the corner flange. As a result, the height of the subframe will be reduced by 50%, and the strength will double.
Installation
For ease of installation, the car is fixed on a lift or above a pit. Pre-preservation of surfaces (attachment points, subframe) is carried out using protective agents, for example, Movil.
The finished product is tried on site individually for each vehicle. 4 holes are drilled along the perimeter of the structure, symmetrical relative to the center line. Having previously loosened the transfer case fasteners.
Having placed the plates on the interior side, as in the photo, the subframe is attached to the side members with M12x1.25 bolts.
The RK brackets are sequentially removed, turned over and freely fixed to the subframe. The position of the shaft flanges is adjusted until minimal gaps are formed by moving the entire structure. Alignment is performed at 3000 rpm with the machine standing.
The bolts are thoroughly tightened.
What dangers can await a motorist while driving?
As practice shows, even such a device as a subframe does not guarantee 100% protection for the transfer case and other components of the car while driving off-road. Therefore, if you often operate the Niva in rural areas, where there is a danger of “picking up” a stump or some other object that is difficult to notice in uncut grass, install the special protection on the subframe that we talked about in the previous paragraph. Then the risk of transfer case deformation will be reduced to zero. If there is no such protection, both the subframe and the box itself will deteriorate.
So, we found out how to make a transfer case subframe for a Niva with our own hands. Whether you need it or not - decide for yourself.
To absorb unnecessary vibrations, it is worth installing a subframe on the Niva 2121. You can assemble this metal structure even at home. How to make it and secure it under the body of a Chevrolet Niva and other VAZ models?
Features of driving a car with a subframe on the transfer case
Many years of experience in trouble-free operation of the machine suggests that even such a reliable and durable device does not guarantee absolute protection for components and assemblies when driving off-road. When driving the Niva in extreme conditions, remember that installing a subframe reduces the vehicle's ground clearance or ground clearance by at least 20–30 mm.
You should not relax and rely entirely on the protective properties of the structure - be careful when overcoming obstacles, try to avoid accidental “encounters” with large stones, stumps sticking out of the ground or pipe cuttings. Take care of your car, protect your health, nerves and wallet!
The unpretentious and reliable Niva car was specially created for use in Russia, a country of vast expanses and widespread off-road conditions. Experts have long come to the conclusion that a subframe on the transfer case makes the car more comfortable and safe. Now we can install this structure by making it ourselves.
Shaking problem
Many drivers who have a VAZ 2121 Niva at their disposal have encountered the fact that the cabin vibrates strongly while driving, especially off-road or at high speed. Vibrations that spread almost throughout the entire cabin cause a lot of inconvenience and constant discomfort. Technically, this was not corrected, so the people’s minds had to independently find a way out of the current situation. And the solution turned out to be quite simple - the transfer case needs a structure that will absorb vibrations. Installing a subframe solves this problem.
The ready-made protective metal frame Niva Comfort is suitable for models 2121, 21213, 21214. The main purpose of the protective part is to eliminate all vibration from the transfer case. But the benefits of installing a subframe on a field turn out to be much greater:
After installing the transfer case subframe, the ground clearance will slightly decrease, but the car will be much more comfortable to drive.
Design features of standard mounts
A subframe is used for fastening because it has many advantages:
- Capable of eliminating vibrations that interfere with the operation of the transfer case.
- Protects the device body from damage when driving on bad roads.
- If the subframe is installed correctly, the axis between the VAZ 2121 transfer case and the gearbox is reduced. This increases the service life of both devices.
Materials, tools and drawings
The protection is mainly used for models 21214, 2121, 21213, which have vibration problems. To assemble a subframe on the field with your own hands for a transfer case, you will need metal channels, angles, bolts and a sheet of thin metal as the main materials. In addition to materials, you need to get diagrams or a drawing of the subframe. The simplest design consists of two transverse parts and two crossbars that connect them. Tools worth preparing:
- grinder;
- drill;
- measuring instruments - calipers, ruler;
- bank;
- hammer.
To protect against metal filings, you should take protective clothing made of thick fabric.
There are several design options, so the number of channels and angles may vary depending on the drawing.
Factory design
Factory part
One of the recommended devices for eliminating transfer case vibration is the so-called “Niva Comfort” kit. The Niva Comfort subframe was developed a relatively long time ago, has a quality certificate, and Niva 2121 owners often use it.
This device is a welded structure made of metal corners, with drilled fastening points, mounting plates to which the base will be mounted. Since the transfer case should not be fixed rigidly to the base, the kit includes elastic supports.
For all its advantages, this subframe for the transfer case has disadvantages. It is installed in the places where the box was previously attached, that is, to the bottom, so if there are problems with the base, installing the Niva Comfort design will be problematic.
Assembly options
The first step is to measure the distance for the parts. Using the subframe drawings, we assemble the structural parts according to the measurements obtained.
Here are three build options:
- A simple version of the Niva-Comfort type frame, where you only need 5 main parts and a couple of fasteners for them. It is assembled from five square-shaped channel pieces with an additional reinforcement strip. The ends of the four parts are bent into the frame and holes are drilled into them for bolted connections. The frame parts can be welded or bolted together. A more complex design consists of almost a dozen parts and is assembled according to three drawings.
- In this homemade version, one wide channel is used as a basis, in which there will be a hole exactly for the transfer case. On the sides of the channel there are large corners, and at the ends there are shelves made from smaller corners. All parts are connected exclusively by bolted connections. This design protects the bottom of the machine well, but is more labor-intensive for manual production. The great advantage of this particular option is the installation of engine crankcase protection, which can be connected to the subframe; in addition, the protection of all parts around is improved.
Design description of vibration suppression system
Car with front and rear wheel drive
The invention relates to an off-road vehicle. The car contains a frame (3) made of two parts (4) and (5) with two elastic supports (7) and (8) attached to the floor (2) of the car body (1).
The gearbox (16) is rigidly connected to part (5) of the frame (3). Elastic supports (20) and (21) of the transfer case (19) are installed on part (4) of the frame (3). Additional elastic support (24) is rigidly fixed to the transfer case (19) and is rigidly connected to part (4) of the frame (3).
Three elastic supports (20), (21) and (24) ensure an unambiguous position of the transfer case (19) relative to the gearbox (16). Under all vehicle driving conditions, the gearbox output shaft (16), transfer case drive shaft (19) and connecting shaft (22) remain coaxial, which reduces vibration and ensures engine longevity.
The design of the frame (subframe) is periodically improved, so there may be some discrepancies with the presented drawings, photos and descriptions.
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