Dodge Viper 2017, Operating Information Manual

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Skip Shift Indicator Light
There are times when you must shift
the transmission directly from first
gear into fourth gear instead of from
first gear into second gear. This is to
help you get the best possible fuel
economy from your vehicle. This oc-
curs when engine coolant is higher than 107°F
(42°C), and vehicle speed is greater than 16 mph
(26 km/h) but less than 18 mph (29 km/h), and
engine speed is less than 1,550 RPM, and the
transmission is in first gear, and the accelerator is
at 20% throttle or less. The “Skip Shift Indicator
Light” located in the tachometer will illuminate
during these times.
When the “Skip Shift Indicator Light” illuminates,
the shift mechanism will only allow shifts from
first gear to fourth gear. After you shift the
transmission into fourth gear, you can press the
clutch in and shift to another forward gear.
Downshifting - Proper downshifting will improve
fuel economy and prolong engine life.
To maintain a safe speed and prolong brake life,
downshift to maintain a safe speed when de-
scending a steep grade.
WARNING!
Skipping more than one gear while down-
shifting, could cause you to lose control of
your vehicle. You could have a collision.
CAUTION!
If you skip more than one gear while down-
shifting or downshift at too high a vehicle
speed, you could damage the engine, trans-
mission, or clutch.
STREET/RACE MODE — IF
EQUIPPED
This vehicle is equipped with a two mode elec-
tronic controlled damping system. This system
allows for a compliant street suspension damp-
ing setting or a firmer race suspension damping
setting. When in street mode the system will
automatically shift the suspension dampers to
the firmer Race damping setting during some
hard acceleration and braking situations. There
are two modes of operation:
•
Street Mode — This mode will give a sporty,
but comfortable ride. This mode is driver
selectable when the vehicle is placed in
STREET mode (push the “STREET” button
on the Instrument Panel). This mode is in-
tended for a smoother ride on the various
types of pavement and road conditions while
still providing damping levels appropriate ex-
treme capabilities.
•
Race Mode — This mode is driver selectable
when the vehicle is placed in RACE mode
(push the “RACE” button on the Instrument
Panel). This mode is for track use only and
will supply maximum grip to the tires.
NOTE:
•
With the ignition in the ON/RUN position,
the suspension damping system will be in
the last mode the system was in when the
vehicle was turned off. The driver can
select either Street or Race damping
mode at any time.
•
The suspension mode will lock and stay in
whatever the driver selects even when the
ignition is turned off and the car restarted.
•
The RACE setting will provide a much
firmer ride.
•
When RACE mode is enabled, a Shock
symbol with “RACE” next to it will light up
in the instrument cluster.
LAUNCH MODE
This system maximizes acceleration traction for
straight line racing.
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop on a
level track surface with the engine running.
2. Set the steering wheel for straight ahead
driving.
3. Fully depress the clutch and select the first
gear position.
4. Push and release the “LAUNCH” button (lo-
cated on the steering wheel controls).
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