Fluids and Maintenace First Question

[sirhc76]

I purchased a 96 GTS two weeks ago and have started changing all the fluids. I am uncomfortable not knowing when the fluids were last changed. I have read the boards until my head hurts and want to confirm what I have found prior to starting. I do have a service and owner manual on order, unfortunately they won’t be here by this weekend.

I wanted to see of this link:

http://www.yandros.com/Viper/ViperFluids.htm

applies to the 96 GTS as well in terms of fluid types and levels. It appears that one of the posts I found the above link it pertains to a member with a 96 as well. I would also like to know if there are any specifics on Grease type for the suspension components.

I have already done the Oil, Radiator Flush/Fill, Battery tray cleaned and repainted, pulled/checked the plugs, repaired driver’s side window motor, replaced stock stereo system and full detail on exterior.

Thanks all,

Chris

 

[DAMN YANKEE]

Chris,

Man, if only more people took it upon themselves and not only want to have the services down but actually do them themselves! Well done. Here are a few right off the top, others will comment, I am sure.

1. Did you do your brake fluid? Very important.
2. Plug wires? Very important.
3. Tires? Too old, too hard.
4. Check out the threads on getting a better water pump pulley and bracket.
5. Align your doors if they are off.
6. Belt..looking ok?

More as I think of them.

 

[V10SpeedLuvr]

Plugs are $2.50 each at Dodge (prob $2 each at any parts place), plug wire set is $100.00. I'd replace them as well.

 

[sirhc76]

Brake fluid is on the list of things to do this weekend if I can find a mightyvac locally. Plug wires are the black mopar wires, I originally thought they were old until I looked at them and the plugs. They all look rather new, 28k on the car. Tires are good Date of late 06. Doors need to be aligned, this Im still reading about. Belt is OK and slightly worn but Im picky about that and will change regardless.

This weekend I plan on changing the brake, clutch, tranny, and rear diff until I can get it rebuilt and the gears changed. I will then have a drain plug installed to make this process a little easier. I'm still reading up on the power steering fluids as well but it’s on my list. Side sills will be removed and I will run through the process of rivets as listed by another member. I changed the oil pressure sending unit while I was under the car as well. The water pump parts will be done soon, I have to sell my Ram SRT10 so that the wife will let me play with the viper. I can honestly say that I have read a few hundred posts in the last week, all good info and I must say thanks to everyone for that.


Thanks all,

Chris

 

[V10SpeedLuvr]

Speaking of power steering, go ahead and replace your p/s pulley and bracket... (they are cheap and break)

Power Steering

Then add a power steering vent tube: (caps have come loose causing fires)

Roe Racing Power Steering Vent Tube - 92-02 - Safety - Roe Racing

Viper power steering systems were designed by a 100 yr. old monkey who was a Corvette fan and wanted to see all Viper owners stranded on the side of the road

 

[sirhc76]

Thank you for those links I have viewed them both at some point in the last week. I have a tubing bender and wouldnt think thats its very difficult to build an overflow pipe. The wires and plugs will be changed soon regardless of condition. they dont look as nice the ones sold by another board member. The PS parts will come from another board member as well when I have the slush fund built up. I guess I can always pull parts off of the Ram prior to selling and by viper mods instead Since the wife is reading the board as well I'll have to play nice.

Chris

 

[dave6666]

Get your Mityvac from ebay. Brand new and best price.

 

[pdmracing]

Plugs are $2.50 each at Dodge (prob $2 each at any parts place), plug wire set is $100.00. I'd replace them as well.

Mopar wires on e bay for 49$ do a search

 

[slaughterj]

I wanted to see of this link:

http://www.yandros.com/Viper/ViperFluids.htm

applies to the 96 GTS as well in terms of fluid types and levels. It appears that one of the posts I found the above link it pertains to a member with a 96 as well.

Glad you found my chart! If I recall correctly, no one mentioned any fluid types/levels were different for any years but for the changes mentioned on the chart (i.e., amount of oil for 01s+ and transmission fluid for Gen1s) and the amount of fuel (which is not mentioned on the chart, but isn't a regular "maintenance" item anyway).

Other items that are common maintenance are:
spark plugs - every 20k
spark plug wires - every 40k
fuel filter - every 40k
pcv valve (if you have it) - ?
lubing/greasing - ? (whenever in a shop)
battery - every 3-5 years, depending on the one you buy
brake pads - as needed
tires - as needed, approximately 18-20k for rears and 25k for fronts (with limited burnouts)
lubing door hinges - frequently (but NOT hood hinges!)
Note, the aforementioned times are offhand, and opinions may vary.