FAQs

There are tons of questions about the Viper! So many, that this FAQ had to be broken up categories.

Adding Power / Performance

  • What kind of power gains can I get from aftermarket headers?
  • What are some actual quarter mile times/E.T.s for the Viper?
  • Should I go with larger throttle bodies on my stock Viper?
  • What are some dynomometer power and torque values for the Viper?
  • What's the best rear gear ratio for obtaining the Viper's top speed?

    Problems and Tech Service Bulletins

  • Why does my RT/10 lurch at low speeds?
  • What is the annoying rattle sound from the tranny while sitting at idle with the clutch pedal released?
  • Why does third gear sometimes pop out uncommanded?
  • Why is it bad to rest my hand on the shifter knob?
  • Why does my pre-Nov 18 1997 GTS has a very rough idle, or a very high idle?
  • Will the Roadster’s soft top stay on at really high speeds?
  • What can I do about the squeaky, creaky sounds coming from my side pipes ?!
  • What's up with the rivet rust and/or paint bulging on my Snake's sidesills?
  • Why is the coolant temperature gauge reading so HIGH?

    Hard Core Tech

  • How well do the stock (and ported) cylinder heads flow?
  • What are the benefits of a rear gear swap?
  • Why aren’t bigger throttle bodies a good idea on a stock Viper?
  • Is the NACA Scoop really functional?
  • Can I upgrade the Viper’s fuel system?
  • How does temperature and altitude effect my V10's power output?
  • Does the oil cooler always have oil flowing through it?
  • Do I really need a pre-luber or pressurized reservoir for the oil system for added protection?
  • Why did Dodge change the GTS oil pan from ’96 to ’97?
  • How consistent are the stock rocker arm ratios / valve spring pressures?
  • What are some of the concerns with aftermarket headers?
  • Is there an advantage over Mild Steel vs. Stainless Headers?
  • Should I get the largest-diameter primary pipe header available?
  • Should I insulate the headers?

    New / Prospective Owners

  • Can the Viper be a daily driver?
  • What's the proper Break in Procedure for the engine?
  • What's that smell?
  • Front License Plates - Do I have to install one?
  • Why does the car have a Rough Idle?
  • What's that rattling noise from the transmission while sitting in neutral?
  • What kind of fuel economy can I expect?
  • I'm torn between a new Vette / NSX / Porsche or a Viper - any suggestions?
  • What's the best Hard Top to get for my roadster?
  • Are all Hard Tops compatible?
  • How can I get the transmission to stop forcing me to make the 1st-to-4th gear upshift!?
  • What’s a good radar detector to get?
  • How much is insurance on a Viper?
  • Where’s the battery located?
  • What are some tips to avoid getting car-jacked?

    Wheels, Tires, and Brakes

  • What kind of air pressures should my R-1s have at the track?
  • Is the BFGoodrich R-1 a good tire for street driving?
  • Can I mix Michelin tire types, each axle having the same type?
  • What’s a good brake fluid to upgrade my braking system with?
  • What are some good recommendations/observations for tires and alignment to help me set up for track racing?

    Drag Racing the Viper

  • Does the Roadster have a built-in Roll Bar?
  • Should I remove the Spare Tire for running the quarter-mile?
  • Does the Viper need a driveshaft safety loop?
  • How can I get this car to hook up best at the track on street tires?
  • How can I measure my Viper's performance without going to a drag strip?


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