Market Positioning:
The Dodge Viper is a high-performance American sports car, renowned for its raw power, distinctive design, and track capability. This manual serves owners and enthusiasts who are passionate about maintaining and enhancing this iconic vehicle.
Competitive Landscape:
Competes with other exotic and performance sports cars of its era, such as the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Porsche 911, and Ferrari models, distinguished by its V10 engine and aggressive styling.
Manual Value Proposition:
This manual is positioned as the 'best bang for the buck' for DIY enthusiasts, enabling owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs while gaining in-depth knowledge of their Viper.
Covered Systems Overview:
Comprehensive coverage including engine, powertrain, chassis, electrical, and body systems.
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Exact page count not specified, but described as comprehensive).
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for the V10 engine, including intercooler and turbocharger systems (if applicable to specific configurations).
Powertrain Systems:
Transmission (manual), center differential, rear differential, clutch system, driveshafts, and axles.
Chassis Systems:
Brakes (ABS, hydraulic, parking), suspension (front and rear), steering system (power steering), wheel alignment.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for all electrical components, lighting, ignition, audio, and ancillary systems.
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, interior trim, seats, safety restraints (airbags), HVAC system.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete, detailed wiring schematics for all vehicle systems, including engine, transmission, ABS, airbags, lighting, and body electronics.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements, tune-ups.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical diagnostics and repair.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.
Turbocharger Intercooler Details:
The manual will detail procedures related to the intercooler system and any factory turbocharger components, including inspection, cleaning, and replacement if applicable to specific configurations within the 2004-2007 range (e.g., ACR or specialized models).
Wheel Alignment Specs:
Precise specifications for front and rear wheel alignment (camber, caster, toe) for optimal handling and tire wear.
Technical Depth:
Expert level, covering from routine maintenance to complete vehicle teardown and reassembly, including detailed torque specifications and clearances.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive list of torque specifications for all critical fasteners, engine components, chassis parts, and driveline assemblies.
Engine Displacement:
8.3 Liters (505 cubic inches)
Horsepower 2004-2005:
500 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 2004-2005:
525 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Horsepower 2006-2007:
510 hp @ 5300 rpm (SRT10 Roadster), 517 hp @ 5400 rpm (SRT10 Coupe)
Torque 2006-2007:
535 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (SRT10 Roadster), 539 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SRT10 Coupe)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Intercooler Description:
While the standard Viper V10 is naturally aspirated, specific configurations or aftermarket upgrades might involve intercoolers, which this manual would cover if factory-equipped or if it details common upgrade paths.
Exhaust Type:
Dual exhaust system designed for high-performance output.
Engine Configuration:
Naturally Aspirated, 8.3L V10
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
ECM Type:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with OBD-II diagnostics.
Transmission Type:
Tremec T-56 6-speed manual transmission
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Manual transmission was standard for this generation).
Clutch Type:
Heavy-duty, twin-plate clutch assembly.
Gear Ratios Typical:
Manual Transmission: 1st: 2.66, 2nd: 1.78, 3rd: 1.30, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.79, 6th: 0.70 (Specific ratios may vary slightly by year/model, manual will confirm).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Typically a high-performance synthetic manual transmission fluid (e.g., Synchromesh or equivalent). Specific part numbers and viscosity grades will be detailed in the manual.
Length:
Approx. 175.7 inches (4463 mm) (Coupe), 169.7 inches (4310 mm) (Roadster)
Width:
Approx. 74.5 inches (1892 mm)
Height:
Approx. 47.8 inches (1214 mm) (Coupe), 47.1 inches (1196 mm) (Roadster)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.5 inches (114 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,100 - 3,300 lbs (1406 - 1497 kg) depending on model and options.
Wheel Base:
Approx. 98.8 inches (2509 mm)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Specific GVWR will be detailed in the manual, typically around 4,000 lbs.
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific NHTSA ratings are not readily available for this niche performance vehicle in the same way as mass-market cars. Focus is on inherent safety systems.
Passive Safety:
Advanced, high-strength steel frame, airbags (driver and passenger), three-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC - standard on later models).
Brake System Type:
Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS. Rotor sizes and caliper types will be specified.
Infotainment System:
Basic but functional audio system, often with CD player and AM/FM radio. Later models might include optional premium audio systems. Navigation systems were not standard.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, Traction Control, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) for enhanced stability during spirited driving.
Connectivity Features:
Limited connectivity by modern standards; typically includes power windows, power locks, and basic audio connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. The manual will provide precise recommendations.
Coolant Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific interval, usually around 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Brake Fluid Change:
Recommended every 2 years to maintain optimal performance and prevent moisture contamination.
Engine Oil Type:
High-performance synthetic engine oil, typically 0W-40 or 5W-40, meeting Chrysler MS-A0919H specifications. Check manual for precise grade.
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically orange or pink. Refer to manual for specific Mopar part number.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 High-Temperature Brake Fluid.
Rear Differential Fluid:
High-quality synthetic 75W-90 or 75W-140 gear lubricant, often with limited-slip additive if equipped. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.
Power Steering Fluid:
Specific power steering fluid or ATF Dexron III/Mercon equivalent. Manual will list Mopar part number or acceptable alternatives.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear (due to performance driving), rear differential pinion seal leaks, occasional ignition coil issues, and potential for oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan gaskets.
Common Maintenance Tasks:
Regular brake fluid flushes, differential fluid changes, clutch fluid checks, and attention to valve cover gasket sealing.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can experience wear over time due to the high-performance nature of the suspension. Manual provides inspection and replacement procedures.
Dodge Performance Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of performance vehicles, and the Viper stands as its halo car, a symbol of American muscle and exotic performance engineering.
Third Generation Viper:
The 2004-2007 models represent the third generation (Phase II) of the Dodge Viper, which saw significant refinements in power, handling, and styling, including the introduction of the SRT10 variants.
Manufacturing Location:
Conner Avenue Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Production Years Covered:
This manual covers the specific model years 2004 through 2007, encompassing the SRT10 Coupe and Roadster variants introduced during this period.