2004 DODGE VIPER radiator

When additional coolant is needed to maintain the
proper level, it should be added to the coolant recovery
bottle.
Points to Remember
²
Do not overfill the bottle.
²Check coolant freeze point in the coolant bottle. If
antifreeze needs to be added, contents of the coolant
bottle also must be protected against freezing.
²If frequent coolant additions are required, or if the
level in the bottle does not drop when the engine cools,
the cooling system should be pressure tested for leaks.
²Maintain coolant concentration of 50% ethylene glycol
(minimum) with recommended antifreeze for proper
corrosion protection of your engine that contains alu-
minum components.
²Make sure that the radiator and bottle overflow hoses
are not kinked or obstructed.
²Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle has
air conditioning, keep the front of the condenser clean
also.
²Do not change the thermostat for summer or winter
operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install
ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs may
result in unsatisfactory cooling performance.
Hoses and Vacuum/Vapor Harnesses
Inspect surfaces of hoses and nylon tubing for evidence
of heat and mechanical damage. Hard or soft spots,
brittle rubber, cracking, checking, tears, cuts, abrasions,
and excessive swelling suggest deterioration of the rub-
ber. Pay particular attention to those hoses nearest to
high heat sources such as the exhaust manifold. Inspect
170 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Check the battery every 4 to 6 weeks to ensure that the
voltage is above 12.40. Voltage will drop more rapidly
in hot temperatures. If battery voltage drops below
12.40, follow the battery recharge procedure in the
Service Manual.
²Check that the radiator coolant level of protection is to
at least -20ÉF (-29ÉC).
²Block the wheels. Do not apply the Parking Brake.
²Make sure that all tires are inflated to the optimum
pressure, (29 PSI).
²Cut blocks of plywood about the same size of the tires.
Cover each block with indoor/outdoor carpeting and
place them between the tires and concrete. This will
prevent tire flat spotting.
²For long term storage, remove the tires and put the
vehicle up on blocks. Stack the tires on plywood and
cover with a tarp to prevent flat spotting.
²Move the wiper blades away from the windshield.
NOTE:To help prevent the battery from discharging
during shorter periods of inactivity, perform the follow-
ing:
1. Make sure that the trunk, hood, doors, windows and
convertible top are completely closed.
2. Make sure that remote transmitter is operating and
that the battery is good.
3. Make sure that the hood, trunk and door switches are
in adjustment. Perform the quick system check which
follows.
Use the remote transmitter to set the alarm. If the alarm
SET light comes on and flashes, the system is operating
properly. If not, there is a problem with a switch or the
system. See your dealer for service.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 185
7

Pets.................................. 46
Pets, Transporting........................ 46
Placard, Tire and Loading Information......... 112
Power
Accessory Delay......................13,24
Steering..........................107,161
Windows............................. 23
Pregnant Women and Seat Belts.............. 32
Programming Transmitters.................. 18
Radial Ply Tires......................... 120
Radiator Cap........................... 168
Radio................................. 82
Radio Antenna.......................... 90
Radio Operation......................... 90
Rear Axle............................. 176
Rear Wheel Bearings..................... 177
Reclining Front Seats...................... 57
Reformulated Gasoline.................... 127Refrigerant............................ 160
Reminder, Seat Belt.....................30,77
Remote Keyless Entry..................... 15
Replacement Tires....................... 122
Reporting Safety Defects................... 220
Restraints, Child......................... 33
Restraints, Infant......................... 33
Restraints, Occupant...................... 26
Rotation, Tires.......................... 126
Safety Checks Inside Vehicle................. 48
Safety Checks Outside Vehicle............... 48
Safety Defects, Reporting.................. 220
Safety Information, Tire................... 108
Safety Tips............................. 47
Schedule, Maintenance.................... 200
Scheduled Maintenance................... 148
Seat Belt Maintenance.................... 178
Seat Belt Reminder.....................30,77
INDEX 233
10