Features of power bumpers. Why do car owners want to strengthen the bumper on the Niva?

2024 Author: Erin Ralphs | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-19 11:42

Despite its 40-year-old age, Niva is still very popular with jeepers. Often it is bought for off-road, as this car is very easy to tune. Moreover, there are a lot of ready-made off-road kits on sale. One of these is the front power bumper. About reinforced bumpers and their features - later in our article.

Why do we need such bumpers?

First of all, let's find out why this is necessary. As you know, the main function of bumpers is to absorb impact energy in a collision.

However, the power structure does not have this function. But why then do the owners want to strengthen the bumper on the Niva? There are several prerequisites for this:

• Improve appearance. A prepared SUV with a lifted suspension and mud tires is unlikely to look good with a conventional bumper. Especially if it is a thin piece of iron, as on a standard Niva. Tuning allows you to complement the appearance of the car and makelook more finished.
• Possibility to install a winch. This is one of the frequent reasons why owners want to strengthen the bumper on the Niva. After all, it is not possible to install a winch on a regular bumper. And if you manage to somehow mount it, then it looks very ridiculous. Thus, the look of the car becomes more aggressive. Plus, such a "Niva" will be an order of magnitude more prepared. After all, the winch allows you to tow the car without the involvement of towing cables and the help of other jeepers.
• Structural strength. Those who do not want to align or change the element at the slightest blow want to strengthen the bumper on the Niva. After all, off-road cars often face insurmountable obstacles. During their passage, the bumper may be deformed. The reinforced element is not subjected to such influences.

Bumper and flotation

Unlike the regular one, the reinforced bumper has a more durable construction. This allows you to significantly increase the angle of the car. On rough terrain, drivers often encounter steep descents and inclines, and the factory bumper flexes instantly when it hits the ground. The power element can withstand the entire curb weight of the car. This is a big plus for patency.

But not everything is so simple. The fact is that the power bumper (front) of the Niva weighs several times more than the regular one. When choosing, it is important not to overdo it with the thickness of the metal. With a large mass, the car will pull the "beak" down. And this worsens the characteristics of patency. But as practice shows, ready-made bumper kits inwithin reasonable limits differ in weight from regular.

Material

What is this design made of? The basis is sheet metal. Its thickness starts from two millimeters. Sheets are cut into several pieces and then welded to the desired shape.

The structure inside has special pipes (a kind of power frame). The surface is then powder coated. The most popular color is matte black. Scratches and other deformations are almost invisible on such bumpers. And in which case they can be tinted from a regular spray can.

Other benefits

Why else does the Niva SUV need such a bumper? Tuning allows you to maintain the integrity of the car body. After all, when hitting stumps, driftwood and other elements, as a rule, the blow is transmitted to other parts - the radiator grill, “TV”, etc. The power structure does not allow such situations. Due to its strength, it eliminates all damage. In addition, the design allows you to install a hijack type jack. But if the car is stuck to the rapids or deeper, the only visible structure is only the bumper. It is impossible to hang the body on a regular element - it will simply be pulled out of the grooves.

Additionally, the power bumper on the "Niva" can be equipped with a kenguryatnik. In this case, you completely protect the grille, hood edge and headlights from impact.

Is it possible to strengthen the bumper on the Niva if it is rear?

Many are limitedonly by installing the front element. However, those who care about the appearance, bother buying a rear power bumper. But if you think that apart from aesthetic, it does not carry any functions, you are mistaken.

Often these bumpers are welded on platforms for towing hooks, as well as for a ladder or spare wheel mounting. If the budget allows, you can install a second winch. In this case, the Niva will be the most prepared off-road car.

Front and rear bumper cost

One of the most popular manufacturers of these structures in Russia is RIF. The price of the front power bumper is from 15 to 20 thousand rubles, depending on the configuration (with or without a kenguryatnik). The winch is installed separately in the hole. The rear bumper with hooks and a towbar costs from 15 to 17 thousand rubles.

Conclusion

So, we found out what the Niva power bumper is for, and what are its advantages. As you can see, this is a very useful improvement for an SUV. Especially if the latter is being prepared for off-road.