🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Viper

Model Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

SR II

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2004 Dodge Viper was a high-performance, exotic sports car positioned as a formidable competitor in the premium performance segment, offering raw power and track-focused capabilities.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Porsche 911, Ferrari 360 Modena, and Aston Martin DB7 Vantage of its era.

Performance Focus:

Renowned for its monstrous V10 engine, aggressive styling, rear-wheel drive, and uncompromising performance focus.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasized a driver-centric experience with a minimalist interior and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency and chassis dynamics.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

2004 Dodge Viper

Secondary Coverage:

General operation, maintenance, safety, and basic DIY procedures for the 2004 Dodge Viper.

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for a vehicle of this era and complexity)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Electronic (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system.

Drivetrain:

Transmission operation (manual), clutch operation, drive axles.

Chassis:

Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS).

Electrical:

Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), battery, fuses, basic electrical component identification.

Body:

Doors, windows, locks, mirrors, exterior features, interior controls and trim.

Operation:

Starting and driving procedures, dashboard indicators, warning lights, climate control operation, audio system controls.

Maintenance:

Recommended service intervals for oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tire rotations, brake inspections.

Diy Activities:

Jump-starting the battery, checking and topping off fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), changing wiper blades, basic tire pressure adjustment.

Safety:

Seat belt usage, airbag system information, child restraint system installation, emergency procedures, roadside safety recommendations.

Towing:

Towing considerations, towing capacity (if applicable), trailer wiring information (if applicable).

Depth:

Covers essential information for the owner to operate, maintain, and understand the vehicle's basic functions and safety features. Does not include in-depth diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text (if scanned with OCR), enabling quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable on standard home or office printers.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V10, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

8.3 Liters (8277 cc)

Engine Code:

V10 8.3L (370 cid)

Horsepower:

500 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

525 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Manufacturer:

Tremec (TR-6060, heavily modified for Viper)

Optional Transmission:

N/A (Manual only)

Clutch Type:

Heavy-duty twin-plate dry clutch system

📐 Dimensions

Length:

180.7 inches (4590 mm)

Width:

74.9 inches (1903 mm)

Height:

47.1 inches (1196 mm)

Wheelbase:

96.2 inches (2444 mm)

Front Track:

60.1 inches (1526 mm)

Rear Track:

59.9 inches (1521 mm)

Seating Capacity:

2

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 5.4 cubic feet (153 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,160 - 3,200 lbs (1433 - 1451 kg), depending on trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approximately 4,300 lbs (1950 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not rated (as is common for low-volume exotic sports cars of this era)

IIHS Side Impact:

Not rated

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags

Seat Belts:

3-Point Seat Belts with Pretensioners

Rollover Protection:

Integrated roll bar behind seats (standard feature)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, typically featuring 6-8 speakers. Advanced infotainment features were not a primary focus of the Viper.

Driver Assistance:

ABS and Traction Control are the primary electronic driver aids. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist.

Connectivity:

Basic functionality, no Bluetooth, USB ports, or smartphone integration typically found in modern vehicles.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or as recommended based on wear patterns.

Brake Inspection Interval:

Recommended at every oil change or more frequently during spirited driving.

Engine Oil:

SAE 10W-30, meeting Chrysler MS-AEC1024 or API SJ/SL classification (refer to manual for exact spec).

Coolant:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, blue color (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid

Transmission Fluid:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MTL) or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9417 specification.

Differential Fluid:

Mopar Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 75W-90 (API GL-5) with limited-slip additive.

Common Issues General:

While generally robust, common concerns for Viper owners can include clutch wear due to aggressive driving, potential for oil leaks (especially valve cover gaskets), and the need for specialized maintenance due to the unique V10 powertrain. Early third-gen models sometimes had minor electrical gremlins or HVAC system quirks. Regular attention to cooling system integrity is paramount.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Viper being its halo car, embodying raw power and American muscle.

Generation:

Third Generation (SR II) Viper, introduced for the 2003 model year.

Key Changes 2003:

Significant redesign including an all-new chassis, revised aerodynamics, increased engine displacement, and improved interior refinement compared to the previous generation.

Production Location:

Conner Avenue Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA

Production Years Gen 3:

2003-2006

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Awards:

The Viper consistently received acclaim from automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its extreme performance, aggressive styling, and raw driving experience.

Track Capability:

Often praised for its track-day readiness and ability to compete with much more expensive exotic sports cars.