FAQs
There are tons of questions about the Viper! So many, that this FAQ had to be broken up categories.
If you have FAQs you would like to add, Please email them to Web Support.
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 Roadsters 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 bigger throttle bodies are NOT a good idea on a stock Viper?
- Is the NACA Scoop really functional?
- Can I upgrade the Vipers 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 1996 to 1997?
- 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!?
- Whats a good radar detector to get?
- How much is insurance on a Viper?
- Wheres 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?