Important question: When will Viper Techs get certified for SRT servicing?

[jwwiii]

Hello;

I am under the impression that all Viper techs have to undergo factory training to work on our beasts. I also believe that in order to be a "Qualified Viper Dealer", that factory training was mandatory. PLEASE DO correct me if I am wrong!

There are plenty of Dodge dealers, but only a few "Viper Dealers". Is it not true that warranty/repair work must be done by a "Viper Tech"? I have never taken my Vipers to anyone but a trained Viper Tech and never will.

So, the big question; if none of our Viper Techs have been trained on the SRT, will they have to go to the factory to be certified? Or; will they just study from a manual and take a test to be qualified?

I would really like to hear the scoop on this, as my SRT will be the first my dealer will see. It's great getting the first in my neighborhood, BUT, I sure don't want to serve as the Guineapig SRT that is experimented on. Let's see (tech) "Ah, I wonder what happens if I turn that..OOOPS, wrong bolt!"

Just kiding there folks! But, I would feel better knowing that my mechanic is prepared to work on my new SRT!

Thanks,

Jim

 

[jwwiii]

Hello again;


This is important don't you think? We have a brand new motor, suspension, brakes; heck, just about everything is new!

How about the engine computer that the dealers use? Won't they need an "update" to that unit with the SRT's new codes?

These Vipers are expensive, specialized machines. I am just truly curious as to how Dodge will go about training our techs to work on the SRT's.

Surely someone will need some service beyond an oil change in the very near future (I hope not, but?).

Can anyone comment factually on this training issue? It is for the benefit of everyone who is anxiously waiting for their new SRT!

Jim

 

[Tom Sessions]

Jim, There is update class that has been out for a few months.I recieved credit for this class about 2months ago.It goes over alot of the new features of the car.There is a hands on class coming soon.As for the diag and codes on the car all of that is in the 2003 service manuels.The training centers had to wait just like everyone else to get the training cars so they would have something to teach us with.

Tom
Viper Tech
D@E Dodge
Wilmington NC

 

[jwwiii]

Tom;

Thanks!

I appreciate knowing that you guys have been contacted and have been exposed to the new beasts internals. I bet the "hands on" training will be pretty cool for you guys/gals.

So, what do you think about the new SRT Tom? Do you think it will be easier, or harder to work on? With the new hood, I might think you would have a little easier time maneuvering about?

Are there any particularly interesting details you can share with us? I for one, have always followed, but QUESTIONED the "break-in" period for the Viper. There seems to be a good amount of reasoning, along with a pinch of "Voodoo logic" for good measure.

If the CAAP crew takes say, 1 out of every 10 engines at random and runs full power/endurance tests (I believe that is close)then the break-in proceedure would be spoiled for that engine. Is this a correct assumption? It makes sense to let the engine settle its parts in gently; this was especially true 25 years ago when we were advised to change the oil at or before 500 miles! Technology has moved vastly, and most new cars don't need a tune up,etc for like 50k miles!

Obviously, the beasts engine is a "high performance" engine. could you elaborate on the break-in subject from a tech's point of view?

I know this has been discussed frequently in the past, and I am very aware of the suggested rules to follow. The SRT is new and the engine is different. Just curious for your opinion Tom!

Thanks,

Jim