The VIPER TAX

[Dajerseyviper]

So I was looking for a sports bar pad grommet part #OQX23DX9AB and was told by a few vendors they couldnt get it, the ones that could wanted $27 each plus shipping. They claimed the "viper tax" was high on this simple small piece of plastic part. Well I found the part from a local distributor called Concord-Parts for $15.35 each and ordered 2 for the price of 1 from a Viper Specialist shop. Then it dawned on me, the ones screwing us viper owners with this imaginary Viper tax, are these self proclaimed viper specialty shops that are marking up and price gouging simple everyday dodge part. Its sickening.. I cant fathom how a generic parts distributor was able to locate and provide me with this part for less than a place that sells nothing but Viper parts. It really makes me sick and pretty angry.

You would figure this nonsense would have stopped by now.

[firefighter196]

I had the pleasure of rebuilding the top end of my engine this winter, so i wanted ti fill it with new oil and filter and then dump it after a few mins of running. I went to Dodge and asked for 2 viper oil filters, they only had one at $27 but then the parts guys says this is the same filter without Viper written on it and it was $7. Both filters had all the same stampings same threads and same size. Why do they have to stick it to us? Another situation is when i bought the clutch cylinder unit that attached to the clutch pedal and has a resoivor with it. I paid $123 not a bad price, that was in 2014. I went back with my bill for easy ordering to get another one for my buddies car the price was $327 they had no explanation but to say Chysler can update there pricing at any time.

[dave6666]

Another snowflake crybaby thread over $15. Good god do you whine about everything?

And the irony of the why aren't values going up threads. Can this get any dumber... lol

[Bill Pemberton]

Depending on the year of the Viper ( 2006 on back ) there are a couple of filters , but the only one you should be using says Viper on it and ends in the number 36. But will admit it should not be 27 dollars, but more like 12-15. Designed for the car and the cheap one was replaced by it many years ago and highly recommended by the Engineers to be used for Vipers.

[13COBRA]

Viper specialty shops aren't necessarily the ones doing it. They have to buy their parts to sell as well.

I just had to replace the trunk lid release button on my Gen IV ACR. I'm wanting to say the part was a couple hundred dollars...but I got lucky and found a thread on here showing that it was the same release as a Caravan. So I ordered a Caravan one for $29.

Anything to do with the drivetrain, I would only use true 'Viper' parts (even if they cost a little more), just my opinion.

[Coloviper]

Is there a way a cross part spreadsheet that can be created so others others don't suffer in silence. Example is the caravan item above. That type of thing is extremely important going forth. There are a ton of examples of the exact same thing but other parts.

[13COBRA]

Is there a way a cross part spreadsheet that can be created so others others don't suffer in silence. Example is the caravan item above. That type of thing is extremely important going forth. There are a ton of examples of the exact same thing but other parts.

I have never seen a spreadsheet...but a quick Google search will pull up threads from people in the past replacing the same thing you are.

It would take quite some time to compile a spreadsheet. The best way I can see is if there was a sticky on here, and all members contributed and one person kept the list up-to-date.

[Destructo]

There's a sticky thread at viperclub.org with number of parts that cross reference to other models. I think it's mostly gen II parts.

[plumcrazy]

tom did a spreadsheet i think back in the day

[SlowPoke McGee]

Sounds like slave6666 is suffering from classic Stockholm Syndrome lol

For the rest of us that don't want to bend over and hand the lube to the parts shops with a smile on our face, this spreadsheet idea sounds fantastic. Something proactive the community can do to fight back.

[Patentlaw]

Maybe I am having some comprehension problems........

You are complaining about the price of a part that you got from a general parts distributor for less money that a "viper specialty" shop. So in other words, you are complaining that some people have higher prices than others. Isn't this a normal event in every day life? Not every place that I shop at has the "low price". That is why you shop. Maybe this parts distributor had a bunch of the parts laying around and just wanted to liquidate the inventory and you are the only one who has ever asked for the part. They said just unload it.

I also don't begrudge someone for making a living. They charge what the market bears.

I know that lots of people want to get down on Dave6666. Honestly, this sounds like a typical Jersey person who just wants everything given to them and complains when it is not. So you had to shop for a part. Oh, the horror of that. Make a Federal case of it. Typical Narcissist.

[13COBRA]

lol

[Steve-Indy]

As Bill Pemberton stated, you want the Viper specific oil filter for your Viper.

Gen's I, II, and III require part number 05037836AB ...do not use the AA version !!!

Gen's IV and V require part number 05038041AA.

[Dajerseyviper]

Maybe I am having some comprehension problems........

You are complaining about the price of a part that you got from a general parts distributor for less money that a "viper specialty" shop. So in other words, you are complaining that some people have higher prices than others. Isn't this a normal event in every day life? Not every place that I shop at has the "low price". That is why you shop. Maybe this parts distributor had a bunch of the parts laying around and just wanted to liquidate the inventory and you are the only one who has ever asked for the part. They said just unload it.

I also don't begrudge someone for making a living. They charge what the market bears.

I know that lots of people want to get down on Dave6666. Honestly, this sounds like a typical Jersey person who just wants everything given to them and complains when it is not. So you had to shop for a part. Oh, the horror of that. Make a Federal case of it. Typical Narcissist.

Or, I just dont feel like being taken advantage of after paying the highest tolls and highest property taxes in the country...If you're content overpaying for stuff because the Viper Experts say you have to, then that's your business. Ill be enjoying my $11 saving on each part and buy at least 3 cups of NJ coffee and maybe drive 2 exits on the Turnpike with it..

[ViperSRT]

I made a mental note here that most that are complaining are enthusiasts and not members. Hmmm. Guess that is another viper tax.

[Steve-Indy]

Dajerseyviper, at the end of the day, it's your Viper to do with as you wish.

That said, the engineers responsible for developing you Viper engine gathered some data along the way that convinced them to have a filter designed and produced specifically for the Viper. Here is a little insight from that group as written in a "member only restricted area" of another forum:
"We worked with many of the filter suppliers to get the best features. Some fell out for various performance reasons but we ended up developing the current SRT filters with one of the mainstream manufacturers (it is different than their commercial offerings - or at least was when we developed it). The high flow oil pumps in our large engines (Viper is the biggest) can overpower the internal relief valve. When this valve opens it allows some of the high pressure dirty oil to bypass the filter element in order to keep the filter from being damaged. The SRT filters do indeed have a higher differential bypass valve to make sure all the oil delivered to your powerplant is clean. The housing is slightly thicker than many of the brands out there to handle the pressure but is not the thickest. The real thick ones failed our development testing (fractured at the crimped flange). The media used was one of the latest synthetics that allowed very fine filtration, more debris capacity, and much lower restriction than our standard Mopar filter (and just about every other filter out there). The final result was clean oil to your Snake, all the time, with more pressure to the internals where it is needed. I would fully recommend using this filter in your beast, I do in mine. Hope this info helps."

[AZTVR]

Its sickening..

It really makes me sick

I have to admit that imagining a grown man getting sick over this issue is a bit amusing. The post sounds the same as someone complaining about the outrageous price markup for an epipen that might save his child's life.

[MH60M]

OP......don't look up spark plugs. It'll ruin your day.

[Granger73]

Many years ago I had a split window coupe with an aftermarket shifter. Didn't want to spend the money for the correct one, but one year at Carlisle a well know vendor had one setting on his table. I asked him how much he wanted tor it and he gave me a price that was a little higher than market price. I pretended that I was really surprised at the high price and he looked me straight in the eye and said, "Don't forget boy. That's a Corvette you got there not a Chevette." Point well taken.

[Patentlaw]

Let's see......you drove your car to get the part instead of having it delivered to your door. There is a cost to that. You took time looking for the part. There is a cost to that. So what did you gain?

Unless your normal employment is at the dollar store, where everything is at the lowest price possible, you also live by the people who shop or frequent your establishment. You don't complain about it then that people used your services and paid a little more.

You just begrudge others for making a living. You never even considered that convenience has value to others.

When you look at it, your problems are very small. Wars, disease, economic uncertainty. You have one of the nicest cars on the planet.

**** NOTE ******

If you had started the thread like this.......

Hey everyone, I wanted to pass along a great place to save everyone some money. It is place XYZ........ People would have been thankful.

INSTEAD

You complained about others servicing the Viper community.

Instead of a positive thread, you made it negative.

May you continue to have incredible luck in your life concerned about the small things in life. Happy Easter.

[mackzilla]

I made a mental note here that most that are complaining are enthusiasts and not members. Hmmm. Guess that is another viper tax.

http://img1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20140909172142/spiderman/images/d/d7/Seeing-eyes-emoji-128.png

[luc]

Viper tax is a reality. The same part that goes on a bunch of different brands/models, such as the "skip shift eliminator" is almost always twice the price if you get it for a Viper instead of a Camaro
As for the stupid comment that most peoples that complain are not member but rather enthusiast, what point are you trying to make????? That enthusiasts are smarted that members???
I have owned my 00GTS since when I bought it new back in 2000 and frankly I don't need to be a "member" to enjoy my snake
Ownership is way more rewarding than membership
and, BTW, Dajerseyviper is 100% right

[Rich Detert]

Ohh the Viper Tax is a reality. LOL

I needed to get a jack assembly for my ACR as it was missing when I got the car last year.

Online searches (ebay, etc) and the average price was $150 and up plus shipping for a Viper Jack Assembly (jack, lug wrench and vinyl case).

I started searching for factory part numbers.

It turns out that they exact same jack assembly was also used in the PT Cruiser.

The cost of PT Cruiser jack assembly cost on ebay?
$19 with shipping included and it looked brand new.:dude3:

You should never buy anything for a Viper without researching it first.

[City]

You should never buy anything without researching it first.

I took your comment further.

[Boosted Motorsports]

Ohh the Viper Tax is a reality. LOL

I needed to get a jack assembly for my ACR as it was missing when I got the car last year.

Online searches (ebay, etc) and the average price was $150 and up plus shipping for a Viper Jack Assembly (jack, lug wrench and vinyl case).

I started searching for factory part numbers.

It turns out that they exact same jack assembly was also used in the PT Cruiser.

The cost of PT Cruiser jack assembly cost on ebay?
$19 with shipping included and it looked brand new.:dude3:

You should never buy anything for a Viper without researching it first.

lol mine is missing too! Note taken!

[bluesrt]

just like the rear hub bearings on a 03 to 10 viper/ same part number from factory moog stamped number as a 1996 4x4 dodge Dakota...lol dodge wants 500.00, napa wants 125.00 pulled the factory rear moog hub bearing off my 2010 x car and has the same part number for the dakots, so no its not different,if it was the part number would differant

[ViperSRT]

just like the rear hub bearings on a 03 to 10 viper/ same part number from factory moog stamped number as a 1996 4x4 dodge Dakota...lol dodge wants 500.00, napa wants 125.00 pulled the factory rear moog hub bearing off my 2010 x car and has the same part number for the dakots, so no its not different,if it was the part number would differant
I thought they selected low end tolerance hubs for Viper to prevent having excessive lash and noise. A number alone may not tell the whole story.

BTW the engineer who specified that part is a member of MCVO and VOA.

[bluesrt]

one would think if you ran a part number off a bearing of the same brand, how many different ones could there be? different ones mean different part number, 1234- for 03 viper, 1234ab 03 super fast option -lol 1234ab-tt super fast racer

[06SRTCoupe]

Mobile 1 oil filters are also fine to use...at least on a Gen III they are. I can't speak for the other Gen's but I'm betting they would be fine on them as well.

[ViperSRT]

Works and works well are two different things. The engineers stated the original filter and all competitive filters evaluated can allow unfiltered oil to bypass by the filter during high oil flow periods. To prevent that in concert with the supplier they created a Viper specific filter with higher flow capacity to avoid circulation of unfiltered oil. Ignore that advice at your own risk. Note the only symptom of unfiltered oil related damage us when it becomes catastrophic.

On a side note we all used those filters prior to development of the new filter. But when something better became available I personally switched, as did many others.

[13COBRA]

Again, the best advice I can give anyone... anything that involves the drivetrain, I would always go with the more expensive "Viper" part...but anything else, such as a trunk release, jack, etc, it's ok to go the cheaper route.

[Dajerseyviper]

Dajerseyviper, at the end of the day, it's your Viper to do with as you wish.

That said, the engineers responsible for developing you Viper engine gathered some data along the way that convinced them to have a filter designed and produced specifically for the Viper. Here is a little insight from that group as written in a "member only restricted area" of another forum:
"We worked with many of the filter suppliers to get the best features. Some fell out for various performance reasons but we ended up developing the current SRT filters with one of the mainstream manufacturers (it is different than their commercial offerings - or at least was when we developed it). The high flow oil pumps in our large engines (Viper is the biggest) can overpower the internal relief valve. When this valve opens it allows some of the high pressure dirty oil to bypass the filter element in order to keep the filter from being damaged. The SRT filters do indeed have a higher differential bypass valve to make sure all the oil delivered to your powerplant is clean. The housing is slightly thicker than many of the brands out there to handle the pressure but is not the thickest. The real thick ones failed our development testing (fractured at the crimped flange). The media used was one of the latest synthetics that allowed very fine filtration, more debris capacity, and much lower restriction than our standard Mopar filter (and just about every other filter out there). The final result was clean oil to your Snake, all the time, with more pressure to the internals where it is needed. I would fully recommend using this filter in your beast, I do in mine. Hope this info helps."

I dont know what your post has to do with anything I posted. Im complaining about the price of a grommet for the sports cap, Not an oil filter.

[Dajerseyviper]

I made a mental note here that most that are complaining are enthusiasts and not members. Hmmm. Guess that is another viper tax.

Sorry that im not 12 years old and suffer from acceptance issues and feel a need to join a car club. So I guess you're a better human than me cause you pay dues to a national car club...

[Dajerseyviper]

Let's see......you drove your car to get the part instead of having it delivered to your door. There is a cost to that. You took time looking for the part. There is a cost to that. So what did you gain?

Unless your normal employment is at the dollar store, where everything is at the lowest price possible, you also live by the people who shop or frequent your establishment. You don't complain about it then that people used your services and paid a little more.

You just begrudge others for making a living. You never even considered that convenience has value to others.

When you look at it, your problems are very small. Wars, disease, economic uncertainty. You have one of the nicest cars on the planet.

**** NOTE ******

If you had started the thread like this.......

Hey everyone, I wanted to pass along a great place to save everyone some money. It is place XYZ........ People would have been thankful.

INSTEAD

You complained about others servicing the Viper community.

Instead of a positive thread, you made it negative.

May you continue to have incredible luck in your life concerned about the small things in life. Happy Easter.

I ordered it... as in online...As in delivered to my door...Sorry again to disappoint and invalidate a forum members point he was trying to make..

[Dajerseyviper]

Works and works well are two different things. The engineers stated the original filter and all competitive filters evaluated can allow unfiltered oil to bypass by the filter during high oil flow periods. To prevent that in concert with the supplier they created a Viper specific filter with higher flow capacity to avoid circulation of unfiltered oil. Ignore that advice at your own risk. Note the only symptom of unfiltered oil related damage us when it becomes catastrophic.

On a side note we all used those filters prior to development of the new filter. But when something better became available I personally switched, as did many others.

Dude, you keep stroking these "engineers" egos like you have a vested interest in them. Here is a reality check, and I know I will get heat for this but those who understand me will truly get it, but the Viper is terribly engineered car for its price point and market competition. More specifically the Gen I and II's which were plagued with problems like Paper head gaskets, poor cooling design, excessive in cabin heat, plastic power steering pump pulleys and crank pulleys that sheered off, horribly aligned body panels, just to name a few right off the top of my head...That's not even getting into the other little horrid things about the interior and its design or lack of. Other manufacturers at the time were making a way better product in the $90,000 price point range of a viper, which is why the viper never really sold to a main stream audience well and has been discontinued due to poor sales profits. That being said, I love my viper but hate many things about it..So lets really stop with this engineering nonsense about the viper, its not really that great of a car and all in all is a really badly designed and manufactured car when you really get down to it...

So if you're gonna tell my your engineer buddy said that the same exact part number for a wheel bearing will only work if you purchase it from a viper specialist for 3 times the price because it has special "VIPER" tolerances, then perhaps try selling people bridges as a profession.

[13COBRA]

Jesus Christ. Multi-Quote.

[Dajerseyviper]

one would think if you ran a part number off a bearing of the same brand, how many different ones could there be? different ones mean different part number, 1234- for 03 viper, 1234ab 03 super fast option -lol 1234ab-tt super fast racer

its the same bearing period. No manufacture is gonna make parts that they cant cross use in different applications, it would cost too much on the manufacturing end and the viper would cost $350,000 as a result. Even the rotors are off a dodge truck...Dodge really made a Frankenstein of a car the first 10 years of production.

- - - Updated - - -


Jesus Christ. Multi-Quote.

I cant figure that out, Im only a dumb enthusiast.

[ViperSRT]

Dude, you keep stroking these "engineers" egos like you have a vested interest in them. Here is a reality check, and I know I will get heat for this but those who understand me will truly get it, but the Viper is terribly engineered car for its price point and market competition. More specifically the Gen I and II's which were plagued with problems like Paper head gaskets, poor cooling design, excessive in cabin heat, plastic power steering pump pulleys and crank pulleys that sheered off, horribly aligned body panels, just to name a few right off the top of my head...That's not even getting into the other little horrid things about the interior and its design or lack of. Other manufacturers at the time were making a way better product in the $90,000 price point range of a viper, which is why the viper never really sold to a main stream audience well and has been discontinued due to poor sales profits. That being said, I love my viper but hate many things about it..So lets really stop with this engineering nonsense about the viper, its not really that great of a car and all in all is a really badly designed and manufactured car when you really get down to it...

So if you're gonna tell my your engineer buddy said that the same exact part number for a wheel bearing will only work if you purchase it from a viper specialist for 3 times the price because it has special "VIPER" tolerances, then perhaps try selling people bridges as a profession.

Sounds like you should buy a car you like. Adios.

And it was the hub I mentioned and not a bearing.

[ViperSRT]

its the same bearing period. No manufacture is gonna make parts that they cant cross use in different applications, it would cost too much on the manufacturing end and the viper would cost $350,000 as a result. Even the rotors are off a dodge truck...Dodge really made a Frankenstein of a car the first 10 years of production.

- - - Updated - - -



I cant figure that out, Im only a dumb enthusiast.

Your logic is astounding. Why the fuck are you here? Go to another forum. Quickly.

[Chiliphil1]

You know, I'm not yet an owner but I have totally noticed this as I am making sure of what I am getting into. Parts are more expensive but, I really expected them to be. Anytime you have a premium product you pay more, that's just how it is. The viper is an $80k car, so parts are not going to be cheap. I also get the viper specific part thing as well, I mean I think it's part the name and part higher quality. The same applies to my motorcycle, it's a Buell, not super expensive but somewhat rare and now out of production. Parts for that, if they can be found are pricey but there are many aftermarket auto parts which will "fit" guys have come up with ways to mod things to work, etc.. But to that I say, wouldn't you want the part that was made for the vehicle by the people who made the vehicle?

[13COBRA]

You know, I'm not yet an owner but I have totally noticed this as I am making sure of what I am getting into. Parts are more expensive but, I really expected them to be. Anytime you have a premium product you pay more, that's just how it is. The viper is an $80k car, so parts are not going to be cheap. I also get the viper specific part thing as well, I mean I think it's part the name and part higher quality. The same applies to my motorcycle, it's a Buell, not super expensive but somewhat rare and now out of production. Parts for that, if they can be found are pricey but there are many aftermarket auto parts which will "fit" guys have come up with ways to mod things to work, etc.. But to that I say, wouldn't you want the part that was made for the vehicle by the people who made the vehicle?

Exactly why I sold my RC8R... it was expensive to maintain haha

[daveg]

All car manufactures try and use some off the shelf parts to keep costs down. Case in point, my window switch went on my 96 GTS and a Viper parts place wanted $350 for the switch (also came with the shifter plate that I didn't need) But found that the Dodge Caravan window switch was the EXACT same part for $19.00 All I had to do was switch the plastic cover over to the new one and done.
I believe the mirrors on a Gen II are Stealth mirrors if not mistaken.

[Dajerseyviper]

Your logic is astounding. Why the fuck are you here? Go to another forum. Quickly.

You sir are a real dick....Go to hell.

[Vipernoob]

Sounds like you should buy a car you like. Adios.

And it was the hub I mentioned and not a bearing.

He's already promised he would leave us alone before, don't expect too much:


Ill do you a favor and remove myself from here on out. Im sorry my "tell it like it is" postings draw more heat than the owner of Vipaire who has literally STOLEN tens and thousands of dollars from your members and yet is still allowed to post. I dont want to be part of your club, and dont feel like being talked to by some internet tough guy like I am a little kid on a time out..Your moderating is one sided and biased anyway, you rather hav RSI and Vipaire posting than a hard spoken rather Cynical guy from NJ..So peace out and enjoy your silly car club. Sorry I ruffled your feathers girls..

[ViperSRT]

You sir are a real dick....Go to hell.

You come here and shit on the Viper design and the people that made it happen and what do you expect.

You said "... the Viper is terribly engineered car for its price point and market competition. More specifically the Gen I and II's which were plagued with problems like Paper head gaskets, poor cooling design, excessive in cabin heat, plastic power steering pump pulleys and crank pulleys that sheered off, horribly aligned body panels, just to name a few right off the top of my head...That's not even getting into the other little horrid things about the interior and its design or lack of. Other manufacturers at the time were making a way better product in the $90,000 price point range of a viper, which is why the viper never really sold to a main stream audience well and has been discontinued due to poor sales profits. "

" ... Dodge really made a Frankenstein of a car the first 10 years of production."

Your knowledge is astounding. And your dislike for the car is also clear. So again why are you here?

[Special Ed]

Hold on I need more popcorn.

[ViperTony]

Jesus Christ. Multi-Quote.

Single quoting is cheaper. :rolleyes:

[SlowPoke McGee]

You come here and shit on the Viper design and the people that made it happen and what do you expect.

You said "... the Viper is terribly engineered car for its price point and market competition. More specifically the Gen I and II's which were plagued with problems like Paper head gaskets, poor cooling design, excessive in cabin heat, plastic power steering pump pulleys and crank pulleys that sheered off, horribly aligned body panels, just to name a few right off the top of my head...That's not even getting into the other little horrid things about the interior and its design or lack of. Other manufacturers at the time were making a way better product in the $90,000 price point range of a viper, which is why the viper never really sold to a main stream audience well and has been discontinued due to poor sales profits. "

" ... Dodge really made a Frankenstein of a car the first 10 years of production."

Your knowledge is astounding. And your dislike for the car is also clear. So again why are you here?

Hey Gen V. Congrats on spending $125k + for your car. Obviously you have more money than you know what to do with so this topic must seem asinine to you. Why don't you slink back to the GenV forum where people with more money than they know what to do with like to converge? Over here, folks tend to respect the value of a hard earned dollar a little more. There is obviously a disconnect in the Viper community and this topic brings it out more than any other. When some folks have no issue paying $189,000 for a Viper try to school me (who paid $21,000 for my Viper), we have a problem. We're not even in the same game bro. We both like Vipers and that's were it ends. I would NEVER spend that kind of money on a car and I don't think you're a demigod for doing so. A car nut with deep pockets and narrowly defined priorities,yes.✅

[Rich Detert]

Hey Gen V. Congrats on spending $125k + for your car. Obviously you have more money than you know what to do with so this topic must seem asinine to you. Why don't you slink back to the GenV forum where people with more money than brains like to converge? Over here, folks tend to respect the value of a hard earned dollar a little more. There is obviously a disconnect in the Viper community and this topic brings it out more than any other. When some folks have no issue paying $189,000 for a Viper try to school me (who paid $21,000 for my Viper), we have a problem. We're not even in the same game bro. We both like Vipers and that's were it ends. I would NEVER spend that kind of money on a car and I don't think you're a demigod for doing so. Quite the opposite actually.

Great response.:lol2:

Why do some people get so uptight when a subject like this (overpriced parts) comes up?

As stated, not everyone has an unlimited budget for their car.

Why pay more than you have to for parts or anything else?

There are lots of parts on a Viper that were used on other Chrysler products through the years.

They didn't use lesser quality parts on the cars that weren't Vipers.:smilielol:

All the parts that Chrysler used were designed to be in tolerance and hopefully last till the car was out of warranty.

A lot of the parts were made by vendors, not directly by Chrysler.
They are just built to Chrysler's specifications to be used as an OEM part.

Being a Chrysler assembly plant retiree gives me some insight to how the vehicles were built, so I have some idea of what I'm talking about.

[ViperSRT]

You know, maybe, Just maybe people that have a Gen V have other Vipers also. And maybe had them since new. And have a whole lot of information about them. But if you choose to act like they do not belong maybe they just keep that information close to their vests and let you newer owners, that bought when prices were at the bottom, learn the hard way.

Read the other posts from this New Jersey guy and you will quickly learn he is a dick and deserves nothing. He is not a contributor in any sense of the word. Anyone who constantly denigrates the Viper design, the people/company that engineered it and the companies that provide valuable parts and services clearly does not belong here.

[ViperRyan]

Well this thread went awry rather quickly, which was expected. I've been a Viper owner since last August, but an enthusiasts since I was a kid. As I’ve stated in other threads, if you come into the Viper expecting this completely refined, highly engineered, subtle car, you're going to be disappointed(earlier Gen's especially). Prior to buying mine, I had driven a 96 RT/10, I had an idea of what I was getting myself into, right before my Viper I had a Cobra replica, which was about as bare and hardcore as you can get. I've always had a love with Vipers, I love mine, even it's faults. It's always hot, rides rough, it's loud and obnoxious(not a negative), it's not cheap to work on or fix if something breaks, but that's what it is. Owning these cars, is not just owning a car, it's a love you have for the car and all they represent. Out of all the car communities I've been around, this is by far the best. There aren't too many places where you can tie together people from all over the world who own the same car, that highly range in value, but yet all maintain a reasonable amount of respect for one another.

I see where you're coming from, about trying to save money when buying parts, everyone likes to save money. I think you came on this thread and completely started it off with the wrong tone, just sharing the knowledge of the savings found is all that was needed, not necessarily bashing a supplier which was been good to the Viper community, and then continue to bash the car, the history, the design of which is the reason we are all here.

If you come into owning a Viper and expect the cost/parts/labor etc. to be just like owning a Hyundai or a the like, then this isn't the car for you. Someone who truly loves and respects these cars, just doesn't behave the way you have, so hence all the negative feedback.

[ViperRT98]

There's absolutely zero benefits for anyone joining VOA and VCA... When we were able to get the tire discount that was a benefit... however there is absolutely nothing else that we really get and most of the events are planned by non-paying members... so if you want to add me and that makes go right ahead... I'm not paying for a membership because I own a particular car .... this isn't the NRA...

[City]

Amazing how participants here seem to take so many opposing opinions to heart and then go off on absurd assumptions, i.e., if you've recently bought a GEN V then you "have little respect for a hard earned dollar" or at least less respect than owners of earlier less expensive Gen's. What's with some of you folks???!!!

This thread SHOULD be an informative discussion about all aspects of finding and obtaining alternative, less expensive "like or identical" Viper parts for your car. It should NOT be about the denigrating of participants who may have no issue with paying a "Viper tax" and those that make every effort to avoid paying said tax.

Anyway, several folks here need to take a breath and reread their posts BEFORE posting. Any further lack if reasonable civility is going to cause us to edit posts and consider suspension(s). PLEASE don't force our hand here. We are at our best when we do nothing other than cashing our moderator checks.

[daveg]

There's absolutely zero benefits for anyone joining VOA and VCA... I have to say I disagree. For years the Corvette club wanted me to join and I refused. When I purchased the Viper, I felt the same way you do.. But when I met the folks in the New England region, I decided to join and I am glad I did.. Met some Awesome people and I am proud to say they are now my friends! The New England chapter has events almost every weekend and they are a great time!!!
May I suggest that you try it (like me) and if you decide its not for you, simply don't renew next year..
That's just my 2 pennies..
Good luck with your Car!

[Bill Pemberton]

Well , pretty impossible to say you have zero benefits , because if it wasn't for those members who pay and join you wouldn't have this website, which allows you to find out things about your car and even express your views.

[bluesrt]

I don't evan get the guest free deal, should be a 15 day free guest,then pay to be on this forum if you want to have the perks of valuable info,outbursts of foul idiots ect..

[ViperRT98]

What pays for this is the sponsors like your self that advertise their business... Most of us use Facebook to get help when needed... I'm sure some of the membership fees may go towards the maintenance of this website... however in the region we are in there's not many activities, unless we non-members set up local meets... what is funny is we actually get contacted by VCA to attend their functions even though we are not a member... To me that's what's important it's not about VCA or VOA... It is about getting Viper owners together to enjoy their vehicles... and when I have purchased my vehicle two years ago I had seriously thought about joining VOA... but there's no benefits to paying a membership.... Sorry it is the truth...

[Bill Pemberton]

Sorry , been a member since inception and sponsorship will not remotely pay the bills, and frankly if you see no value , why are you even on the Forum then? Simple question , but makes no sense to me why folks who think there is no value even come here?

[ZZ SRT]

I'm not a member because I was member of the VCA, and we all know how that worked out.

I don't need a club specific to my vehicle. I'll leave that to the Corvette dweebs. I actually prefer some variety when cruising with fellow enthusiasts anyway. I mean isn't that why a lot of us drive a viper anyway? To be different?

[COI]

This thread SHOULD be an informative discussion about all aspects of finding and obtaining alternative, less expensive "like or identical" Viper parts for your car. It should NOT be about the denigrating of participants who may have no issue with paying a "Viper tax" and those that make every effort to avoid paying said tax.


I agree - and there isn't a "Viper tax" per se. I'd call it more a "rare car" tax. Like many others on this forum I have a number of other special interest cars and in every case there is some form of unreasonable mark-up on what ends up being somewhat generic parts. As many have noted this is a lot more common with the higher volume automobile manufacturers as they definitely reuse parts across their line. It would be great to know that fellow Viper owners would share this knowledge constructively - but unfortunately, that doesn't seem to be in our DNA judging from how Viper owners treat each other on the three primary Viper forums. I also appreciate that parts dealers need to make money to stay in business and to the extent paying a few extra $'s enables them to be there tomorrow - I'm happy to do it.

I think the Viper is one of the most enjoyable cars out there but I tend to keep my Viper ownership quiet as Viper owners definitely have a bad rap. With that said, I do pay my dues to ensure sites like this continue and to support the local club.

[ViperRT98]

Sorry , been a member since inception and sponsorship will not remotely pay the bills, and frankly if you see no value , why are you even on the Forum then? Simple question , but makes no sense to me why folks who think there is no value even come here?

As you can see how inactive I am on this website I don't come here very often.... However if you feel non members are receiving benefits for having access to VOA should be limited sounds like VOA needs to limit all sections to paying members and also limit how often someone can post... Then that problem will be solved...

However I'm still in the same set of mind that just because we on a particular car doesn't mean we need to join a particular Club... Certain areas the VOA is very active and pay the membership fee would make probably good sense... our location it does not at least not to me not when we're the ones trying to set up functions and gatherings... then have individuals trying to act like they're better because they are members and telling individuals that are not members that they're cheap not you others have...

That will put a sour taste a lot of our mouth... And if we were looking to buy a new Viper personally I probably would now avoid your dealership... good thing that's not the case...

[Rich Detert]

one would think if you ran a part number off a bearing of the same brand, how many different ones could there be? different ones mean different part number, 1234- for 03 viper, 1234ab 03 super fast option -lol 1234ab-tt super fast racer

Anytime Chrysler superseded to a newer part number on the assembly line such as 1234AA to 1234AB it was because there was some type of change, even if it was just a vendor change.
It was a way to keep track of each generation of a specific part used in the assembly plant.
Sometimes the number change was just because it was a new model year.

[Bill Pemberton]

The Viper is done , and I want to see this Forum and the Club continue. So many will have to pay to keep it alive, so the simple question I asked was if you see no value, why do you come here? The value in joining is to make sure , as COI mentioned , that sites like this continue, as you also apparently do find it beneficial at times . No need to argue, I asked a simple question as I don't understand why folks do anything in life if they don't appreciate it or see the purpose of it's existence. If membership only supports this Forum , I am in still as it will be a resource for Viper owners for years to come, and it will be more valuable for members to contribute and help others than even now.

[Viper98]

Hi follow Viper owners,
To start, this reply is entirely friendly and on neutral ground.

I agree with both sides of the Viper tax. Some things are understandably priced, and some overly priced. This is where some type of "library" or whatever name it is given, could/would be very helpful. As many know there was a thread started recently, and most likely there was another in the past, that suggested a "spread sheet" to help with part interchange. Some items, like the oil filter should not be compromised on, while others: grommets, interior door handle bezel, power window clips, and many other parts that are not Viper specific can be used with no worries. A useful "spreadsheet" or "library" or even just a simple sticky could solve the "Viper tax" threads and not lead to the bashing OR cause the moderators to step in.
I agree that it would have been a better start to the thread as suggested above, but Jersey guy was understandably upset at the extra $ tagged on to the grommet. A day or two to calm down always helps me see better and not be so perturbed before I speak(text, mail, etc)
I believe we got a little off target on this thread when the bashing started. Everyone, Viper owner or otherwise, has an opinion and opinions can not be wrong. Maybe not agreed with, but not wrong. They are just the way someone sees things. I love my Gen ll and don't get upset when anyone says anything "non-positive" about it, it's their opinion and not an attack on me. Jerseyman has a Viper and he has opinions. Certainly nothing wrong with either of those. Sometimes people just need to vent.
I would like to believe that we Viper owners, members or not, can rise above banging on anyone or any sponsor.
I am a Mamba member and very happy to be a part of the VOA. Having so many Viper bros(and Sistahs), especially, with such a "rare", gorgeous and sometimes PITA car is a beautiful thing. If someone doesn't want to be a member that is their prerogative. We can't do anything about it, anyway, and I would like to believe that even non-members contribute here. Likewise of the reverse; many members don't contribute, yet, are still welcomed.

If this thread continues can we, plz, make it civil and help one another. The banging and bashing does NO ONE any good.

If a bunch of "back-in-the-day" hotrodders go on a cruise and one car breaks down, the fellow rodders HELP the guy/gal get back on track. Sounds pretty cool to me.

I suspect many will not agree with me on this and that's fine, that is your opinion.

In the wise words of Rodney King, "can't we all just get along?"

Luv and peace, my fellow Viper owners.

VIPERS RULE!!!

Jer

[Bill Pemberton]

Well said Jer, time to get back to the main question ...............

If anyone ever finds a cross reference for the fuel pump relay on the Gen 1s that would be worth it's weight in gold , as that is an item that is becoming quite problematic.

[Patentlaw]

Amazing how participants here seem to take so many opposing opinions to heart and then go off on absurd assumptions, i.e., if you've recently bought a GEN V then you "have little respect for a hard earned dollar" or at least less respect than owners of earlier less expensive Gen's. What's with some of you folks???!!!

This thread SHOULD be an informative discussion about all aspects of finding and obtaining alternative, less expensive "like or identical" Viper parts for your car. It should NOT be about the denigrating of participants who may have no issue with paying a "Viper tax" and those that make every effort to avoid paying said tax.

Anyway, several folks here need to take a breath and reread their posts BEFORE posting. Any further lack if reasonable civility is going to cause us to edit posts and consider suspension(s). PLEASE don't force our hand here. We are at our best when we do nothing other than cashing our moderator checks.

City,

I understand your post above, however, I would like to make a clarification. The original poster complained about Viper Specialty shops for not giving him the best price. Some, including me, stated that there was value in these vendors and there was convenience in their services. The original poster then went out to clarify where he got the parts and while the place may be have been "local" (New Brunswick) and that the service was actually "on-line". While the original post was clearly negative (out of frustration), his later defense actually provided some benefit to the community and changed the thread somewhat. I agree with you that people need to take a breath and read before they put down information. It is understandable, however, that people will get defensive about their posts and point out the negativity. Anyway.....thanks for letting the discussion progress, even though it has gotten wildly off track.

Lastly, to me, Viper Tax is completely different. You can't have a "Viper Tax" on a part from a specialty vendor. A part is a part for them. To me, a "Viper Tax" is an upcharge that comes from Dodge and they charge values for that part (which is identical to other vehicles) at wildly inflated prices. $300 vs. 15. If a specific vendor is a "specialty shop" and that means that they do not deal with any other parts other than Viper so they are not charging two prices for the same component.

Plaw

[ACR_VP]

Well said Jer, time to get back to the main question ...............

If anyone ever finds a cross reference for the fuel pump on the Gen 1s that would be worth it's weight in gold , as that is an item that is becoming quite problematic.

Arrow just sent me a drop in replacement for my gen2 that was very recently developed (like my car may has one of the first couple) and flows way way more fuel, and they MIGHT have one for the gen 1, doesn't hurt to ask.

[Bill Pemberton]

Sorry , typing too fast did not get in that extra word , relay, so my note was misconstrued - but corrected. Thanks for the note, as we all love Arrow and all they do for our beasts.

[Sybil TF]

Sorry , been a member since inception and sponsorship will not remotely pay the bills, and frankly if you see no value , why are you even on the Forum then?

Ugh, free information?;)

[plumcrazy]

<<---waiting on moderator checks :smilielol:

[06SRTCoupe]

Some of these people need the good old Viper Alley treatment. Come on Plum, can we? Can we can we? Plllllleeeeeaaaaassssseeeee????? :smilielol:

[Sybil TF]

Some of these people need the good old Viper Alley treatment. Come on Plum, can we? Can we can we? Plllllleeeeeaaaaassssseeeee????? :smilielol:How about we start with you first then? But no we don't.

[06SRTCoupe]

How about we start with you first then? But no we don't.

The funny thing about your comment is...I never even thought of you when I made it. Your paranoia is entertaining though...I got a good laugh out of it. Maybe you need a safe space?

[AZTVR]

The funny thing about your comment is...I never even thought of you when I made it. Your paranoia is entertaining though...I got a good laugh out of it. Maybe you need a safe space?

Who really wants the teenager patter from the Alley over here? Plenty opportunity there and on the Civic forums.

[Sybil TF]

The funny thing about your comment is...I never even thought of you when I made it. . Maybe you need a safe space?Why would you? I'm haven't been on there for years :smilielol:I have a safe space of about 10 feet in diameter around. I'm good.

[06SRTCoupe]

Who really wants the teenager patter from the Alley over here? Plenty opportunity there and on the Civic forums.

Please tell me how the Alley hurt you. Do you own a Civic? It looks like you don't own a Viper so I'm assuming you are only commenting because the Alley had a profound effect on your feelings.


Why would you? I'm haven't been on there for years :smilielol:I have a safe space of about 10 feet in diameter around. I'm good.

My response was in regards to you speaking up and assuming my previous comment was directed to you, for your comments in this thread. I'm guessing you felt the need to comment because the Alley also had a profound effect on your feelings as well. Don't be so paranoid.

[mackzilla]

I fixed my rack and pinion with a $22 Durango seal kit.

:p0257:

[AZTVR]

Please tell me how the Alley hurt you. Do you own a Civic? It looks like you don't own a Viper so I'm assuming you are only commenting because the Alley had a profound effect on your feelings.

You seem to make a lot of assumptions. I visit the Alley quite often. Just not for the silly stuff.

[Sybil TF]

My response was in regards to you speaking up and assuming my previous comment was directed to you, for your comments in this thread. I'm guessing you felt the need to comment because the Alley also had a profound effect on your feelings as well. Don't be so paranoid.
Oh brother, never assumed that as said " Why would you? I haven't been there in years". That site is almost as dead as the other one.

[Vipernoob]

Oh brother, never assumed that as said " Why would you? I haven't been there in years". That site is almost as dead as the other one.

How would you know the activity level if you haven't been there in years?

[ICPREY]

I fixed my rack and pinion with a $22 Durango seal kit.

:p0257:
Mind listing the P/N for future reference?

[Sybil TF]

How would you know the activity level if you haven't been there in years?Oh brother you don't know how these things work do you? Viper noob is fitting...

[Coloviper]

What's a Viper Tax? Ha! Ha! Seriously this thread is a bit funny. I am all for a good, fair deal, but some of it is a pay to play for certain parts. Some of you yahoos are so tight your ass must squeak when you walk. Not just the guys complaining about parts but you membership Dodgers. Sad some of you can't see value. In Colorado, the Xmas event alone provides a discount on dinner that pays for damn near 1/2 your membership. So then your Viper magazine is like $15 per issue for a custom magazine. That means the rest of the entire year is almost free to enjoy everything. So the value of the membership is much greater than the cost by a country mile. Sorry if your area is not as active but there is much more to it then just get togethers.

Just be an adult and call a spade a spade. You are too cheap to buy the right parts (Rock Auto, give me a break) and too cheap to support the club. Why sugar coat it and use excuses.

[06SRTCoupe]

You seem to make a lot of assumptions. I visit the Alley quite often. Just not for the silly stuff.

I never said you didn't visit the Alley. Who is making assumptions? You're not too quick are you?


Oh brother, never assumed that as said " Why would you? I haven't been there in years". That site is almost as dead as the other one.

The more you comment, the more you make yourself look like the Alley hurt your feelings. Remember, you're the one who started throwing a temper tantrum in here because of my funny comment. Lol...did "Anything Goes" hurt your feelings one too many times? Never-mind, I already know the answer to that.

[98RedGTS]

What's a Viper Tax? Ha! Ha! Seriously this thread is a bit funny. I am all for a good, fair deal, but some of it is a pay to play for certain parts. Some of you yahoos are so tight your ass must squeak when you walk. Not just the guys complaining about parts but you membership Dodgers. Sad some of you can't see value. In Colorado, the Xmas event alone provides a discount on dinner that pays for damn near 1/2 your membership. So then your Viper magazine is like $15 per issue for a custom magazine. That means the rest of the entire year is almost free to enjoy everything. So the value of the membership is much greater than the cost by a country mile. Sorry if your area is not as active but there is much more to it then just get togethers.

Just be an adult and call a spade a spade. You are too cheap to buy the right parts (Rock Auto, give me a break) and too cheap to support the club. Why sugar coat it and use excuses.

OK, since you brought it up.

I paid to be a VCA member July of last year for my "annual" membership and then was told I had to pay my annual membership again 6 months later. Not really, annual now is that. I was promised the following for membership:
- Special events - never once was invited to anything
- Special pricing with vendors - always called (all the main vendors) and was always told, "sorry, not enough margin for a member discount on that"
- Discount on tires - True story, went to local discount tire and got the same exact pricing by just asking for it (always negotiate)
- Special gifts - Yup, I got a flyer for a car that wasn't my year vehicle. was it a nice gesture? Yes. Was it pertinent to my vehicle? Nope, so I gave it away.

I can go on but don't feel the need to further justify my experience with being a member. All I got was a card, a patch and access to a forum that provides little benefit for Gen2's. heck the number 1 poster over there that acts like they know everything doesn't even own a Viper. I chose to participate here and at the Alley because both places have some really smart and helpful people. The Alley is a bit rough on the edges but if you truly need help, they provide it.

Yes, I know that was VCA and not VOA but that begs another question. If membership is so important to keeping the Viper alive, why can't we just have one club? Having two separate ones that both want you to pay to be a member is just plain STUPID. Theirs not enough cars or members to necessitate 2 separate clubs.

I don't avoid paying to be a member because I'm cheap. I don't pay to be a member because I see little to no value in it.

[ViperSRT]

Oh, the two clubs dilemma. I do hope that they converge again in the future. Some very negative experiences with the leadership from VCA some years ago. Eventually lead to the creation of this club, which is much more like what VCA was in the beginning. I was a member there from its inception in 1995. It has impacted my second home area in Florida as both clubs operate and thus organized events are less. Here in Michigan the local club is strong and collectively changed from VCA to VOA a few years ago. Many, many events to choose from here. One last night in fact that I was at. Bottom line a region is only as good as the contributions of the membership. Enough active members and it is a significant benefit.

[City]

Can this thread possibly encompass more marginally tangential subject matter? :lol2:

But since the 2 club topic has arisen, I'd suggest that the situation will not be an enduring one.

[Geronimo]

The more you comment, the more you make yourself look like the Alley hurt your feelings. Remember, you're the one who started throwing a temper tantrum in here because of my funny comment. Lol...did "Anything Goes" hurt your feelings one too many times? Never-mind, I already know the answer to that.Gonna have to go with no on that one. Pull her hair and see what happens lol

[plumcrazy]

Can this thread possibly encompass more marginally tangential subject matter? :lol2:

But since the 2 club topic has arisen, I'd suggest that the situation will not be an enduring one.


jeez, i hate when you make me look words up on google ~!

[plumcrazy]

OK, since you brought it up.

I paid to be a VCA member July of last year for my "annual" membership and then was told I had to pay my annual membership again 6 months later. Not really, annual now is that. I was promised the following for membership:
- Special events - never once was invited to anything
- Special pricing with vendors - always called (all the main vendors) and was always told, "sorry, not enough margin for a member discount on that"
- Discount on tires - True story, went to local discount tire and got the same exact pricing by just asking for it (always negotiate)
- Special gifts - Yup, I got a flyer for a car that wasn't my year vehicle. was it a nice gesture? Yes. Was it pertinent to my vehicle? Nope, so I gave it away.

I can go on but don't feel the need to further justify my experience with being a member. All I got was a card, a patch and access to a forum that provides little benefit for Gen2's. heck the number 1 poster over there that acts like they know everything doesn't even own a Viper. I chose to participate here and at the Alley because both places have some really smart and helpful people. The Alley is a bit rough on the edges but if you truly need help, they provide it.

Yes, I know that was VCA and not VOA but that begs another question. If membership is so important to keeping the Viper alive, why can't we just have one club? Having two separate ones that both want you to pay to be a member is just plain STUPID. Theirs not enough cars or members to necessitate 2 separate clubs.

I don't avoid paying to be a member because I'm cheap. I don't pay to be a member because I see little to no value in it.



dont be pissed you joined the obviously wrong club. cant compare the vca to the voa as far as membership and its privileges

[ViperTony]

I'm just happy there's a different topic being discussed other than the "My Viper Is More Valuable Than Yours" topics, you know, the "I'm Special" thing. Different topic: Squirrels, they're nature's little bastards.

[Vipernoob]

Oh brother you don't know how these things work do you? Viper noob is fitting...

Not hard to figure out. Luckily this guy was able to say if for me:


The more you comment, the more you make yourself look like the Alley hurt your feelings. Remember, you're the one who started throwing a temper tantrum in here because of my funny comment. Lol...did "Anything Goes" hurt your feelings one too many times? Never-mind, I already know the answer to that.

[Dajerseyviper]

I see where you're coming from, about trying to save money when buying parts, everyone likes to save money. I think you came on this thread and completely started it off with the wrong tone, just sharing the knowledge of the savings found is all that was needed, not necessarily bashing a supplier which was been good to the Viper community, and then continue to bash the car, the history, the design of which is the reason we are all here.

If you come into owning a Viper and expect the cost/parts/labor etc. to be just like owning a Hyundai or a the like, then this isn't the car for you. Someone who truly loves and respects these cars, just doesn't behave the way you have, so hence all the negative feedback.


Well then you completely missed the point of my post. The point was that we are being overcharged whenever possible by people on purpose, and i cant believe some people are totally cool with that? Its not about being cheap or expecting this car to be like a Hyundia (heck even the Hyundia dealer tried charging me 3 times more for a part till i called them on their bullshit and showed them the list price that they were charging over) , you missed my point completely if you take that from my post. The point is not being taken advantage of cause of the stigma that if you own a viper you must have money. With the exception of a few smug Gen5 owners on here that think they are high and mighty, we are all looking to save a few $$$ here and there to pursue our passion. Why should I be charged 2 times more for a part, cause the shop is a "viper specialist" shop? How are any of you cool with that?

[Dajerseyviper]

I don't evan get the guest free deal, should be a 15 day free guest,then pay to be on this forum if you want to have the perks of valuable info,outbursts of foul idiots ect..

Sounds like another VIPER TAX to me..lol These forums make money off of the advertisers not the members. 99% of car forums are free.

[Dajerseyviper]

Just be an adult and call a spade a spade. You are too cheap to buy the right parts (Rock Auto, give me a break) and too cheap to support the club. Why sugar coat it and use excuses.

Im not cheap, Im just dont like being pissed on and told it raining outside...Im not an idiot and gonna pay you 3 times more for a the exact same dodge part# which is viper specific BTW.

It amazes me how many viper owners just love to overpay for parts either cause they can or just dont know any better. They have no problem criticizing me for complaining about paying 3x what a part lists for but will jump to criticize every asking price for every viper owner selling his or her car. So its ok to overpay for the parts but the cars themselves are not worth a dime right?

Also the amount of forums I have been on and the cars I have owned, I have to say the Viper community has been some of the most Juvenile, smug, arrogant and rude people I have ever come across. Im not even kidding with that either, I wish I were.For some reasons Viper owners remind me of the bad guy from every 80's movie ever...Seriously people get your shit together.

This thread went form me complaining about Viper tax to people trying to extort people for VOA memberships, lol get a life guys, seriously..

[Dajerseyviper]

I'm just happy there's a different topic being discussed other than the "My Viper Is More Valuable Than Yours" topics, you know, the "I'm Special" thing. Different topic: Squirrels, they're nature's little bastards.

No no, you got it wrong...The Grommet for the sports cap is worth $30 each and the sports cap padding is worth $600, but your car is not worth crap...19K at best..Cash right now...lol

[ViperRyan]

Well then you completely missed the point of my post. The point was that we are being overcharged whenever possible by people on purpose, and i cant believe some people are totally cool with that? Its not about being cheap or expecting this car to be like a Hyundia (heck even the Hyundia dealer tried charging me 3 times more for a part till i called them on their bullshit and showed them the list price that they were charging over) , you missed my point completely if you take that from my post. The point is not being taken advantage of cause of the stigma that if you own a viper you must have money. With the exception of a few smug Gen5 owners on here that think they are high and mighty, we are all looking to save a few $$$ here and there to pursue our passion. Why should I be charged 2 times more for a part, cause the shop is a "viper specialist" shop? How are any of you cool with that?

Well it's obvious you're just and angry person. I was trying to be light about the situation. I always price shop to find the "Best Price" and that's your/our job as a consumer. If you don't need to/want to then you're not worried about possibly paying more. That's basically it, but getting all butt-hurt over $11, because one place had a higher price than another and your anger over it, is amusing. If you get this worked up for something this small, I would hate to see when you actually have a real problem. Judging by your lack of picking up humor/sarcasm of any kind, the guy you talked to could have been joking about the "Viper Tax" for all you know. In the end MOST people would just commend themselves on finding a better source for the part, sharing the info and not ranting like a little princess who spilled on her prom dress. Grow up. If you don't like the way this thread is, then why stay? I've been on a lot of forums as well, you get the same everywhere, this is actually one of the best I have been on. So do what you need to and Rant on little man, Rant on!!!

[06SRTCoupe]

Jersey...ffs...just leave it alone. Why are you so upset? I've owned three Vipers and I have always found deals on parts. The vendors here are a valuable resource. I have even had vendors suggest going to a bigger company like Summit Racing at times because of what they charge. So you found one business that tried to rip you off by charging way too much. WELCOME TO CAPITALISM! That is the way it works. If you don't like it...move to Cuba.

I get the feeling you should probably sell your Viper and get a Prius or maybe a Honda Accord. Those cars seem to fit you much better. Oh wait...there's just one problem with that. Some of their vendors will also try and rip you off...because they all do.

Go out and look for the best deal and stop with your childish temper tantrums.

[goodee]

...I have to say the Viper community has been some of the most Juvenile, smug, arrogant and rude people I have ever come across. Im not even kidding with that either, I wish I were.For some reasons Viper owners remind me of the bad guy from every 80's movie ever...Seriously people get your shit together...

Wow. My experience has been the exact opposite. Although I have not been able to participate in most of the club gatherings, everyone I have dealt with has been the nicest and most sincere people. I just ordered some tires from JonB and he was incredibly nice and gave me what I think was an incredible price. I also had to have my hoses and radiator replaced and Roanoke Dodge was awesome to deal with (as usual) and did not gouge me in any way (I checked prices ahead of time).

Lastly, I have to disagree with ViperTony - Raccoons are nature's little bastards.

[luc]

Dajerseyviper could certainly be a little "friendlier" in the wording of his posts but...... he his 100% right.
There is a Viper Tax
For a lot of us membership offer no value whatsoever ( I was a member for a few years back in the early 2000)
Some Vipers owners have a very condescending attitude

00GTS

[MH60M]

In the parts business, I see both sides of this argument. I agree that without the "Vendors" lots of Viper knowledge and information would be lost. I understand innovation and R&D costs money and I'll pay for it if/when I need it. I do appreciate them keeping parts available in one spot for us to purchase, although its mildly irritating that we can often buy the exact same part directly from the supplier for much cheaper. But hard to find parts, are just that, and I willingly paid $60 for a $22 plastic door sill that was discontinued 3 months ago. I understand everyones' financial situation is different, we all need to eat, and make a buck. Mostly, its up to the buyer to do his/hers due-diligence to not get hosed. Or, if you feel that the service you received from a Vendor warrants the up-charge on parts or the "handling fee"; you'll gladly pay it and be happy. I've sold many of my NIB NOS spare parts for a profit to fund other parts I need. I just bought a full set of OEM GenIII spark plugs online for $10.90...I know the Viper Vendors are 4x that,....maybe the vendor gets them at AutoZone for $4.50ea an is just helping us out by keeping them in stock? I'm not judging, i'll just buy elsewhere.

As to the club side, my local club has some cool AutoX events, but some other prior members have said that the current club doesn't take new club members seriously, and any input is ignored....so the new members drop off and there is no diversity of ideas, or fresh energy to move the club forward. The old VCA-now-VOA crowd can be a bit snooty. At my first meet back in 2010, a Viper Vendor based in Oregon took one look at my car and said it was scrap.....he'd buy it off me for $5k with a chuckle and went back to chatting with his buds. I understand that in the big scheme of things I'm nothing, but I'll never forget that "Viper Club" conversation and I'll never spend a dime at his shop. This behavior can be found at almost any car club though; I think everyone has something to contribute to the greater good. There is no one right answer and what's good for one; is not good for all.....pay the tax or do better research to avoid it where you can.

And yes!.....-Raccoons are nature's little bastards.

[Double0fox]

In the parts business, I see both sides of this argument. I agree that without the "Vendors" lots of Viper knowledge and information would be lost. I understand innovation and R&D costs money and I'll pay for it if/when I need it. I do appreciate them keeping parts available in one spot for us to purchase, although its mildly irritating that we can often buy the exact same part directly from the supplier for much cheaper. But hard to find parts, are just that, and I willingly paid $60 for a $22 plastic door sill that was discontinued 3 months ago. I understand everyones' financial situation is different, we all need to eat, and make a buck. Mostly, its up to the buyer to do his/hers due-diligence to not get hosed. Or, if you feel that the service you received from a Vendor warrants the up-charge on parts or the "handling fee"; you'll gladly pay it and be happy. I've sold many of my NIB NOS spare parts for a profit to fund other parts I need. I just bought a full set of OEM GenIII spark plugs online for $10.90...I know the Viper Vendors are 4x that, and I feel that's a little dirty.

As to the club side, my local club has some cool AutoX events, but some other prior members have said that the current club doesn't take new club members seriously, and any input is ignored....so the new members drop off and there is no diversity of ideas, or fresh energy to move the club forward. The old VCA-now-VOA crowd can be a bit snooty. At my first meet back in 2010, a Viper Vendor took one look at my car and said it was scrap.....he'd buy it off me for $5k with a chuckle and went back to chatting with his buds. I understand that in the big scheme of things I'm nothing, but I'll never forget that "Viper Club" conversation and I'll never spend a dime at his shop. This behavior can be found at almost any car club though; I think everyone has something to contribute to the greater good. There is no one right answer and what's good for one; is not good for all.....pay the tax or do better research to avoid it where you can.

And yes!.....-Raccoons are nature's little bastards.

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h157/double0fox/1cbfa0df5173e000e010eb1a192d6bc1_meme-hes-right-you-know-meme-hes-right-you-know_800-598_zpsfogkkkuj.jpeg (http://s63.photobucket.com/user/double0fox/media/1cbfa0df5173e000e010eb1a192d6bc1_meme-hes-right-you-know-meme-hes-right-you-know_800-598_zpsfogkkkuj.jpeg.html)

[99RT10]

I just bought a full set of OEM GenIII spark plugs online for $10.90...I know the Viper Vendors are 4x that, and I feel that's a little dirty.


And yes!.....-Raccoons are nature's little bastards.

You have a Gen 3 too?!!!


:drive:

[ViperSRT]

Sure, ignore advice and call the advice giver names. Roll the dice as you wish. Some of us lived through failure episodes in the past and learned the solutions were worth the problem avoidance for the future. Do yourself a favor and research engine failures 10-15 years ago and find out how the stock oil filter was determined to be part of the causation. Most owners that did switched to avoid the expensive 15k failure for a $10 part.

As for prices most here do not intentionally overpay for anything (no matter what your feeble mind may think). There is a huge difference between seeking the better deal and spending your money where you find it versus complaining on the web about what you perceive as bad deals. For example I just bought oil at Costco at a very low price. I did not feel the need to find the places where oil may be overpriced (like at filling stations for example) And call them out on the web.

[VENMPWR]

You better hurry there's only 2 left. The rest of us regular folk will stick to the cheap Monoprice ones.

25112

[ViperSRT]

Keep going like you are the pink bunny from Energizer. You prove my point perfectly. Almost all of my cables are from Monoprice. But I do not post how overpriced the Monster cables at Best Buy are.

[Bill Pemberton]

I am hoping in Vegas we can get more of the SRT Engineers to show up and do a couple of Tech Sessions. Some of the items folks are discussing here, are to a degree, due to the fact that interactions many of us had with Dodge/SRT have not been experienced by some of our new members. Little items like an oil filter may seem like they are no big deal, but to sit down with the Engineers that worked with Wix to design a filter for the Viper due to some unique characteristics ( plus seeing concerns with hard usage) , would give folks a different perspective on why a few extra bucks might be important for their Snake engine. The other day one of the folks on this Forum sent me a part number that was supposed to be for a Gen 1 from Rock Auto. Funny thing was I went back and showed our Tech the pictures of the part that were sent and he simply said , wrong part. We run into this all the time , where FCA supercedes a part that appears similar and then it does not fit the newer/older vehicle. Viper Tech ( Joe ) did say there was a good possibility it could be modified to work, but it was definitely not the correct part. This is the paradox we will have with the Viper as it goes out of production. Sharing ideas , and finding parts that might work will likely be beneficial for all of us to keep things running in years to come, but to just buy parts on price alone may cause some surprises in quality especially if they are different than what was expected. So I am for amiable research and sharing amongst owners, but along that line, we , as owners, will have to realize for companies to take care of our small numbers there may be some items that appear on the surface to be priced higher, and we will have to ask ourselves are we willing to pay to have businesses focus on our machine, or are we going to walk away and try to do it all by ourselves?