A Note on Belanger Headers & 2008 Vipers

[Y2K5SRT]

Quite a few 2008 Viper Owners have purchased or are considering a purchase of Belanger headers for their new Vipers. Great! However there is a special note that we have been asked to pass along: These headers have NOT been tested and/or tuned by Chrysler or SRT to be OBD II compliant. As such, there is a very real possibility of Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination (check engine light) and resulting driveability issues that are NOT covered by the factory warranty.

Bottom line? The factory control module has not been calibrated for aftermarket headers, so any resulting check engine light issues are the owner's responsibility - not Chrysler's.

 

[Dan Cragin]

We have not seen any check light issues or calibration problems with the Belanger headers on the 08 Viper. I have one vehicle with over 3000 miles on the system without an issue.

This system, and all others available since 1996 are not OBD 2 certified in California, but most pass tailpipe emissions. They are sold for competition and off road use only.

The new Venom engine controller is very sensitive to modifications. Be aware of this when considering engine upgrades. It will take some time for the aftermarket to develop products to intergrate with this new controller.

There are many other upgrades for the new model (brakes, suspension, driveline and safety) that carry over from the earlier models. The new model has amlpe power and with minor changes can produce 650hp without major modifications.

Owners need to understand that modifications are not covered by the factory warranty, but issues unrelated to aftermarket parts should be covered. Make sure you have a clear understanding with your selling dealer. DC and good dealers understand that Viper owners want to upgrade and personalize thier cars, but they do not want to be responsible for repairs related to them. Keep this in perspective and understand what you and DC should be responsible for.

DC will most likely come up with more comprehensive engine upgrades (including calibrations) in the near future. These will most likely not be emissions compliant. For those with 08 models, this may be the best choice for power adders other than exhaust.

Dan Cragin