Mandatory Head Gasket Replacement Issue

[v10enomous]

Can someone explain the head gasket issue and which models it applies to or point me in the right direction ?

Also wondering about any other mandatory fixes on Gen 1 and 2 Vipers ?

 

[Tom F&L GoR]

The Gen 1 head gasket was originally a single layer that did not always seal. Some will say it is not a matter of if, but when. Others will point out that cylinder liners move and cause the leak. I had a lifter failure at 80,000 miles and to change them had the heads off and my head gaskets were good, not leaking. Perhaps use, antifreeze selection, and regular maintenance helps. The replacement gaskets are improvements and there are now inexpensive aftermarket versions. Before you plunge into doing it "anyway" you might want to look into the price of other gaskets, as some are not cheap. Labor and effort is typical of this job.

Other mandatory fixes? See that you have newer tires and if not an ABS car, practice quick stops to get used to the only-front-brakes feeling. You'll lock up the fronts easily and then you'll have to decide if you want to balance the brakes with a nice four wheel four piston big brake kit or a more cost effective rear caliper swap.

Many others will have their own definition of mandatory...

 

[V10SpeedLuvr]

OEM power steering systems are known to be a problem as well. On certain years, you need to replace the power steering pulley (96-02) and bracket (92-02) with a billet aluminum version. The OEM versions are cheappppppply made and when they break, you stop and wait on a flatbed to take you home.

Power Steering

You also need to invest in a power steering vent tube. The caps have been known to loosen, the fluid comes out of the reservoir, lands on the header and you have a nice fire to watch as your Viper melts on the side of interstate.

Roe Racing Power Steering Vent Tube - 92-02 - Ventilation - Crankshaft and Power Steering - Roe Racing

 

[v10enomous]

I'l make a note of these.... OMG that would really blow...

 

[FastZilla]

This has already happened to me (front break lock up) in the new-to-me RT. There is still plenty of stopping available but not from the front! I'm weighing options now to correct.

The Gen 1 head gasket was originally a single layer that did not always seal. Some will say it is not a matter of if, but when. Others will point out that cylinder liners move and cause the leak. I had a lifter failure at 80,000 miles and to change them had the heads off and my head gaskets were good, not leaking. Perhaps use, antifreeze selection, and regular maintenance helps. The replacement gaskets are improvements and there are now inexpensive aftermarket versions. Before you plunge into doing it "anyway" you might want to look into the price of other gaskets, as some are not cheap. Labor and effort is typical of this job.

Other mandatory fixes? See that you have newer tires and if not an ABS car, practice quick stops to get used to the only-front-brakes feeling. You'll lock up the fronts easily and then you'll have to decide if you want to balance the brakes with a nice four wheel four piston big brake kit or a more cost effective rear caliper swap.

Many others will have their own definition of mandatory...