Routine maintenance...plugs, wires and what else?

NatRT10

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While changing the plugs today, I noticed that the wires are dated 4/94. Does this necesarliy mean they are the original plug wires or does it simply mean the wires were manufactured in '94? This is what ***** about buying a 29,000 mile car from a dealer. I don't know what's been done and what hasn't. Besides the plugs and wires, what other general maintenance items do I need? Thanks guys!
 

LETHAL GTS

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Brake fluid!
Clutch fluid!
Are the plug wires grey? Likely originals then!
Have fun changing them. Gen 1's are a *****! Don't forget to remove the cowal and do one wire at a time if your not sure the location of each wire. You can easily remove the HVAC system on the right hand side with two screws and one bolt. Piece of cake.
 

Tomer

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SOUnds like you don't know when it was last done, but fuel filter is a good one to change, not sure of the factory recommended interval, but they are messy to change!

How does your serpetine belt look?

Tomer
 

Steve-Indy

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I would change ALL fluids, and would change the radiator hoses(I prefer to use Roe Racing silicone hoses ...with the Schrader valve to vent air) ...being SURE to flush the system well (takes me about 25 gal. of distilled water) , including suctioning the "crud" from the overflow bottle in the fascia, replace the "radiator cap" on the pressure bottle and maybe the thermostat as you'll be in the neighborhood. Look over the brakes...likely change pads (for street I like EBC greenstuff) and maybe rotors (consider Stoptech Aerorotors)as necessary.
Inspect and clean (prime and paint as needed) the battery tray...and, consider a new battery...and, if you plan to track the car, consider a non-leaker such as Optima.
Since you will have the tranny protection plate off, repaint it now if it is scratched up badly.

This should be enough to get you started.

Have FUN with your Snake !!!
 

ChoiceViper

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From DC Performance website...


Oil Change: This should be performed in the first 200 miles of vehicle operation and every 2500-3000 miles thereafter. Use only recommended oil and filters and always change the drain plug gasket. Make sure the oil filter is tight.

Differential Fluid: This fluid should be changed in the first 7500 miles and every 12,500 miles thereafter.

Cooling System: The factory fill is rated to last three years; however, we recommend replacing it every two years. Remove the block plugs and use only distilled water and recommended coolant.

Transmission Service: 1992-1997 Vipers should have this fluid changed every 10,000 to 12,000 miles. 1998 and later models should be serviced every 12,500 to 20,000 miles. Driving habits can affect the frequency of this service.

Chassis Lube: The chassis should be lubed conservatively every 9,000 miles. All excess grease must be removed after completing this service. Overgreasing can cause brake contamination and brake failure.

Brake System Flush: Brake fluid should be flushed every two years or whenever it becomes discolored. Discoloration is an indication of moisture. Brake fluid is dehydrated and can boil easily when it has absorbed moisture.

Flush Clutch Fluid: Flush the clutch fluid every three years or whenever the clutch is worked on.

Power Steering Service: This service depends on driving habits but can range from 7500 to 15,000 miles. If the fluid is dark or smells burnt, it should be replaced.

Tune-Up:We have found that at about 15,000 miles there is enough wear and deposits on the spark plugs to justify a tune-up. A complete diagnostic check of the system should be performed. Replace the PVC valve and service or replace the air filters. Synchronize the throttle cables (Gen 1) if necessary. A fuel injector service and throttle body clean may also be necessary at this time. A Viper tech will let you know. The plug wires should be replaced every second tune-up.

Battery: We have found that few batteries last longer than 3 years. It is essential to clean the battery tray and terminals when replacing the battery.

Serpentine Belt: This belt should be replaced every 22,000 to 25,000 miles. It is the only belt in the system and drives all the accessories.

These are the basics. There are many other systems on the vehicle that need periodic attention. If you race, a more rigorous schedule is necessary. If you follow these basic service requirements your vehicle should perform well for many years.

Source: Winter 2003 Viper Club of America/ Southern California Region (Southern California Viper Review Magazine)
 
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NatRT10

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Thanks very much guys! Dang, that's quite a list choiceviper, but that's exactly what I plan on doing. Everything on the list. You guys are a lot of help! :2tu:
 
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NatRT10

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I called Chuck today and ordered a few things. Since I won't be driving the car for a few days, I decided to remove the old fuel filter and wiat until the new one arrives. LOL! They call those things "quick connectors"? I got the outlet side off pretty easy, but that back one is a total pain in the butt! I gave up after an hour. Is there a trick to getting that back one off?
 
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NatRT10

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Finally got that little SOB! Only took me three hours and a phone call to Chuck to finally get it. I didn't realize the "quick connector" was actually part of the fuel filter itself on the inlet side. I thought it was part of the fuel line like it is on the outlet side. Either that or I took part of the fuel line off with the filter. God I hope I did it right!

Here is a picture of what came off...

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slaughterj

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You might want to make a new thread entitled fuel filter questions...I'm looking forward to the answers, and any tips you might have on changing the fuel filter...
 

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