Green With Envy 2009 SSG Coupe

[wakebum2507]

Lets start at the beginning

This thread is going to be an ongoing story of a new to me Gen IV SSG coupe. I've followed a number of you on this forum, Facebook, Instagram, and various other boards. One of my favorite cars has been, and is, Mr. SneakySnakes' old VVO Viper. For years, I lusted for that car. Being from Houston orignally (OKC now), I knew of Alex's car pretty well. I followed his thread, kept track of the updates he had made, how the car was cared for, and the modifications he had been doing.

I'm a computer science guy, a security engineer for a large oil and gas company, a mechanically minded individual, and a thinker. I tend to challenge existing processes and efficiency (or lack thereof), in order to built/automate new/better strategies, which has somehow led me to where I am now, in my professional career.

I've had a number of fast and/or fun cars, most notably a 1300+ WHP coyote, that went through a number of iterations. After that was a gen III viper vert, an E92 M3 optioned fantastically, a few jeeps, etc etc. you know how it is.

Some of you are friends or acquaintances through Houston, Dallas, the Texas Invitational, Runway Rivalry, and some tollway's here and there.

A few months ago, I began to kick around the idea of getting back into something fun. The things I look for in a car have changed over the years, from wanting to be the fastest in a straight line, to the fastest around a track, to not caring about speed at all, but having something different. Like many of you, i've always liked vipers. It was a childhood dream, and when I bought my last one, it was really great. The Gen 3 was fun, but I didn't love it.

I wanted something different. I knew I wanted a gen IV, because the gen V's in the colors I want/wanted were above what I was willing to spend, for a toy. That being a limiting factor, brought my choices down. I knew I wanted a VVO, SSG, or GTS blue car. I preferred them stripeless as well, which narrowed the search down even more. I had my mind set on tracking down the owner of Alex's old car, which I did, luckily. We exchanged a few messages, and he wasn't ready to sell at the time. I was sad to say the least, because that car embodied everything I wanted in a Gen IV. The mods were chosen well, the car was cared for meticulously, the maintenance was detailed, and the history was there.

I started my search looking for VVO cars. I messaged a few of you on here that I knew owned the stripe delete cars, with no luck. I looked at one in Dallas, one in Tennessee, one in Cali. I posted some ISO threads, with no luck there either. The cars i'm finding aren't in the condition I wanted, with lack of history, etc etc.
After failing at finding a VVO car, I started looking for SSG and GTS Blue cars. I messaged people I knew had owned the cars in the past, searching for current owners' numbers, to see if they'd want to sell. This helped a little but still no bites.

Fast forward a little bit, and I came across a one-owner SSG coupe. The car was all stock, had a clear bra on it from day 1, 21K miles on the ticker, with some upgrades like stainless brake lines, stoptech rotors with stoptech pads, new brake fluid, and a spare set of SW2 wheels and tires. needless to say, i'm interested.

I reach out to the owner, whom isn't too talkative, or willing to give up too much info on the car. Odd for someone interested in re-homing their vehicle. We go back and fourth for a few weeks, and I make an offer. He accepted, not convinced I was real.

I arranged transport with Frank Barba, whom I had heard good things about from Calvo, and a few others. We discussed the timeline, picked a day and went from there. Chicago got hammered with snow, ice, and all around bad weather, and the pick up was delayed more than a week. Sadness sets in. I walk to my garage a few nights a week to find nothing but my daily driver in there.


Today is the day

The car was delivered by Frank this morning around 10AM, and I couldn't be happier. Its everything the seller said it was, and the transaction went relatively smoothly, all things considered.

Now like most of you, I believe cars are great from the factory, but can be made even better by some tweaks. I believe in a "factory ++" mindset, where i'm simply changing the small things.

Over the months that I was looking for a car, I had set my mind on a gen IV. After that happened, the gears started turning. I did some research on suspension, speaking with a number of people that owned coil overs from different brands, and some friends that I had gone to the track with, and that raced...lots.
I was using Alex's old car as a play-book for what I wanted to do, since his worked so well, for so long. The hard part was done, I just needed to buy.

I knew what I wanted:
-Wheels
-Suspension
-Exhaust
-Gen V intake
-Arrow/ACRX ECU
-3.55's in the rear.

I pulled the trigger on some coil overs, smooth tubes, full Belanger exhaust with Random technology high flow cats, and the newer 3" side pipes.

I also found myself sourcing some Forgelines, which I had always loved. The color was wrong for the cars I was looking at, but that's simple to fix.

Parts started to arrive before the car was here, which only made me want the car more, even though its been 30-50 degrees in okc, and no one is really doing car things at the moment.


On to the good stuff...
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I backed it off the trailer, into the garage, and put it on stands

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[wakebum2507]

When I got the forgelines, the previous owner had plastidipped them (an abomination), and had the centers done in a flat black. I've always liked black wheels, but against a brightly colored car, I think you loose depth and detail.

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I pulled the two piece wheels apart, and went off to powder-coat. I chose a gunmetal grey for the centers, which I think will be dark enough for contrast, but light enough for detail to be seen.
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Once I got the car, I immediately put her on jackstands so that I could get the three sets of wheels I now owned to Discount Tire for the new rubber on my forgelines.

In the mean time, the coilovers had also arrived, so I was a kid in a candy store.
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Over the next few days I'll get the new wheels on, suspension, smooth tubes, etc.

Exhaust was at the coaters, so it'll be here next week. Stay Tuned....

[commandomatt]

For sure not wasting any time. From unloading to jack stands in minutes and getting it done.

Nice work. Car is beautiful. Cant ever go wrong with SSG.

Looking forward to seeing those wheels installed

Congratulation on the new toy and have fun. I know you will be cracking the door to the garage before you go to bed....just to make sure its for real

[ky13]

My second favorite Viper color! Congrats!

[BlknBlu]

Joining the club would also be a good mod.

Bruce

[v10viperbox]

Is that a narrow stripe SSG or did they paint the wide stripes on it like the 2010's. Hard to tell.

[Steve M]

Is that a narrow stripe SSG or did they paint the wide stripes on it like the 2010's. Hard to tell.

Those are the narrow 2008-2009 stripes.

[commandomatt]

The 2010 stripes also go through the license plate area. The earlier years do not

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[viperBase1]

I had my mind set on tracking down the owner of Alex's old car, which I did, luckily. We exchanged a few messages, and he wasn't ready to sell at the time. I was sad to say the least, because that car embodied everything I wanted in a Gen IV. The mods were chosen well, the car was cared for meticulously, the maintenance was detailed, and the history was there.

Are you talkin' 'bout liddle ol muheee? :t1567:
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:orange:

Hey huge congrats on the SSG!

She's already plenty to lust after.. but looks like you're on the FAST TRACK to making her your own.

In the process of getting to know her, be sure to take time to lube the manual lock on the drivers door.

Take your lusting to the next level!

Suggest you lube the keyhole...noting that sometimes one has to turn the key, while humping the door near latch with your hip AND depressing door handle.

Enjoy and welcome aboard!

[v10viperbox]

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Hopefully the picture loads on mine. So the 09's have straight stripes and don't come to a point. I always assumed they did the same thing as the 2010's but with a smaller starting stripe.

That is cool. Also SSG is the best color but I am a bit biased.

[Purple Haze]

Great car SSG is a great color too...

[wakebum2507]

After some fighting with the suspension to get the old stuff OUT, the new BC coilovers are on, adjusted, and locked in where I think I want them. It took some trials, but it wasn't so bad. the worst part was easily pulling the wheels on and off. WOOF.

Here's the final product -

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[ky13]

Love the new stance!

[commandomatt]

Nice look. 2nd shot is great with all the colors

.....which says you pushed the car to where it is or those leaves would have swiftly been removed by the side pipe (I know...stupid observation)

While I do like the 6 spokes, the new look is definitely better and the lowering is perfect.

[Tylerqb]

Looking great. SSG cars always look good.

I think the car needs this on e the back end.
http://www.autoformgroup.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemart&view=productdetails&virtuemart_product_id=234&virtuemart_category_id=56

[viperBase1]

After some fighting with the suspension to get the old stuff OUT, the new BC coilovers are on, adjusted, and locked in where I think I want them. It took some trials, but it wasn't so bad. the worst part was easily pulling the wheels on and off. WOOF.

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Nice touch on the wheel treatment. :cool:
Big Dog on the block. WOOF!



Nice look. 2nd shot is great with all the colors.....which says you pushed the car to where it is or those leaves would have swiftly been removed by the side pipe (I know...stupid observation)

No my dear Watson!

The gorgeous shine of the finished paint indicates he started the engine and backed the car out onto the drive way and gave the girl a bath.
She's newly acquired.. it's what we do..

There are no obvious/visible swirls in the finish indicating the proper use of a power washer and foam gun for a touchless wash.
The light over-spray generated from the power washer dampened some of the leaves already on the ground, weighing them down and thus solidifying their position on the driveway.
At the same time, the wind generated by the power washer also perturbed other leaves, providing the pseudo-random distribution and clumping.

The lit fog lights indicate the sudden onset of a heavy fog.
The wind picked up and blew the fog away.. thus causing more leaves in the tree to let loose and fall to the ground.
This is visible in photo #1 where he clearly captured one such leaf in free fall near the front fender (@ ~1 oclock from the center of the front wheel).
And another leaf resting on the roof.
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This provided the replacement of leaves that were previously moved by the thundering exhaust out of the side pipes.

Exactly what happened in photo #2 is unclear and requires further analysis.
The Drivers side window is down and there's a Bigfoot hiding in the bushes across the street.

Elementary!

[wakebum2507]

Adding a couple more small touches. MGW shift knob to shorten the throw a bit. Now I don’t feel like I’m rowing a boat!

Proud member of the manual gearbox preservation society, again. I lived the DCT life for a little....but I’m back. 35617

[06SRTCoupe]

I would being the rear up just a touch. Other than that, looks killer! Love the Forgelines in gunmetal!

Are you going to join the club here?

[v10CodeMonkey]

That SSG is looking sleek. Glad to see you found what you were looking for!

[wakebum2507]

I would being the rear up just a touch. Other than that, looks killer! Love the Forgelines in gunmetal!

Are you going to join the club here?

I actually did end up bringing them up another half in or more once the suspension settled down a little bit.

I'll be joining the club sooner or later. Not sure what perks come with it, but everyone seems to be asking, so i'll support the cause.

Will probably wait until it gets warmer here. the 18 degree mornings take the fun out of driving anything.

[wakebum2507]

well, some fun boxes came in from UPS tonight.

Full Belanger Exhaust
-Longtubes (Tri-Y)
-Hi-flow cats
-3" Catback

1-3/4" port matched primaries, laser cut 5/16" flanges, and Jet hot coated. I chose to go with the more updated/newer full 3" system for maximum flow.

I think i should drop about 20Lbs, and pick up 50 or so WHP. Much excite to hear these things...just wish it was a bit warmer here!

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How about that pickle!!

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very smooth turnouts for maximum flow while retaining the full 3" throughout.
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[98intrigue]

Wasting no time I see. That will really change the sound of the car - you’ll love it!

[wakebum2507]

Wasting no time I see. That will really change the sound of the car - you’ll love it!

No time like the present. I've always thought the heat generated from the dual cats per side was overkill, and it doesn't sound like a real sports car with the stock exhaust.

I've heard the belanger full systems created some drone, which would annoy me if I was going on road trips, or things like that, but that's honestly not what this car will be used for.

just waiting on the ACRX ECU now, then need to get the UDP put on and she'll be good to go.

[Fourtrax250r]

Great thread, awesome snake!!

[ky13]

Didn't realize that you were a fellow software engineer :) What spring rates did you go with? Swift upgrade?

[wakebum2507]

Didn't realize that you were a fellow software engineer :) What spring rates did you go with? Swift upgrade?

Yessir! app dev, ops dev, sec ops, and CISSP/CISA. Went with the standard springs and rates. figured if I ever wanted to really push the car, i'd being going to an MCS/Penske/Moton setup, but for the money, the BC setup is great for cruising and spirited driving.

i've heard good things about the custom JRI stuff that lots of the optima street series guys race, but for that 4500+ at my cost, i'd just go with something proven.

[viperBase1]

I've heard the belanger full systems created some drone, which would annoy me if I was going on road trips, or things like that, but that's honestly not what this car will be used for.

just waiting on the ACRX ECU now, then need to get the UDP put on and she'll be good to go.

Proven formula.

Exactly the way to view the Belanger system.
Absolutely awesome, but the drone can be fatiguing after a while.

Please-o-Please share the details of the Belanger install.

[mattssg]

Congratulations on the car!

[wakebum2507]

Proven formula.

Exactly the way to view the Belanger system.
Absolutely awesome, but the drone can be fatiguing after a while.

Please-o-Please share the details of the Belanger install.

I'll be sharing the photos, tips/tricks, and stories of bloodied knuckles, but they will not be MY knuckles.

I'm paying a local shop that does most of the LS work here in OKC to do the install. I had originally intended to do the install myself, but after years of doing my own work on the big builds, i've decided to outsource.

some photos of the past builds:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4886/32417004498_a039a1304c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RozC3E)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/RozC3E) by cameron underwood (https://www.flickr.com/photos/105462168@N06/)https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4909/32417004478_8dc7227e61_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RozC3j)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/RozC3j) by cameron underwood (https://www.flickr.com/photos/105462168@N06/)https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4808/44471832420_729813cf87_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2aKPLpo)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2aKPLpo) by cameron underwood (https://www.flickr.com/photos/105462168@N06/)https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4895/45376022845_a32d4cf001_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c8HYHt)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2c8HYHt) by cameron underwood (https://www.flickr.com/photos/105462168@N06/)


Previous Viper ownership

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4876/46289005551_bdac5e628c_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dwpfEB)IMG_8965 (https://flic.kr/p/2dwpfEB) by cameron underwood (https://www.flickr.com/photos/105462168@N06/)

On Forgelines:

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4813/44472083070_bb7779743c_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2aKR3UW)IMG_9704 (https://flic.kr/p/2aKR3UW) by cameron underwood (https://www.flickr.com/photos/105462168@N06/)

and on SW2's....

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4826/46289005351_94ea98502f_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dwpfBa)IMG_9915 (https://flic.kr/p/2dwpfBa) by cameron underwood (https://www.flickr.com/photos/105462168@N06/)

[viperBase1]

I'll be sharing the photos, tips/tricks, and stories of bloodied knuckles, but they will not be MY knuckles.
I'm paying a local shop that does most of the LS work here in OKC to do the install. I had originally intended to do the install myself, but after years of doing my own work on the big builds, i've decided to outsource.
Ha! I'm a member of the Busted Knuckle Club (http://www.theheads.biz/busted-knuckle-club-1.html)
Great place where I have access to a Lift, a complete set of tools AND they brew their own beer.


some photos of the past builds:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4886/32417004498_a039a1304c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RozC3E)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/RozC3E) by cameron underwood (https://www.flickr.com/photos/105462168@N06/)
Cute. Did it say "To Punish and Enslave" on the quarter panels. :eek:

Makes The Orange Lure hungry for a snack. She's had many of those in between lunch and dinner. :orange:
Most of the time they just slide off the road in an uncontrolled fit.




Previous Viper ownership

On Forgelines:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4813/44472083070_bb7779743c_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2aKR3UW)IMG_9704 (https://flic.kr/p/2aKR3UW) by cameron underwood (https://www.flickr.com/photos/105462168@N06/)

and on SW2's....
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4826/46289005351_94ea98502f_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dwpfBa)IMG_9915 (https://flic.kr/p/2dwpfBa) by cameron underwood (https://www.flickr.com/photos/105462168@N06/)
Sweet!
Not sure which wheels I like better. Both work well with the color and flow of the car.

[wakebum2507]

Got a few more parts in the mail today to get to my 600WHP goal for this car.

-Gen V Intake manifold
-Doug Shelby Engineering Torque limiters

14lbs lighter and constructed from composite, I can already tell this is going to keep the IAT's cooler over time, and increase flow.

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[wakebum2507]

Last piece of the puzzle came in today -

Gen IV Race Engine Controller. A few benefits:

-Improved throttle response and feel and a more aggressive pedal map
-Misfire monitor disabled which will allow use of other engine and driveline changes without false misfire detection
-Airflow rationality monitor disabled which will allow changes to air cleaners, ducts and filters, hood scoop and other inlet side modifications without limp-out
-Temperature rationality disabled to prevent MIL’s due to changes to the cooling system, oil cooler or oiling system
-Leak detection system disabled to allow use of fuel cells without LDP MIL’s
-Rev limit increased to 6600 rpm for track use
-More aggressive exhaust note on deceleration (i.e. popping)
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I also grabbed some oil for the first change, 15w-50 Full Synthetic, per a number of threads on this forum and others.
Picked up some 5w-20 for the Grand Cherokee while I was at it. its kinda nice not having to buy specialty oil for once! Thank Walmart.

Full exhaust is going on over the weekend, so I'll be sharing some of the install photos when that gets done.

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[wakebum2507]

Well, the exhaust is on, and what a difference it makes. The car finally sounds like a sports car!

Its hard to describe, and I know that everyone says "you've gotta hear it in person", but wow, what a change.

Out with the old...


https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7818/46414166952_b82b354bd9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dHsJMN)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2dHsJMN)


In with the new!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4892/45552261875_99464fa66b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cpifrr)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2cpifrr)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4805/45552262255_0ee0627d3e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cpifxZ)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2cpifxZ)
While I was tinkering with the car, I decided now was as good of a time as any to get the new intake on. After some investigating, the old one came right off, and the new one was set into place.

I also added smooth tubes, mostly for aesthetic purposes. Some say they pick up 5WHP, but I haven't personally seen any engineering data to back this up.
(I do think it cleans up the look, however)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4813/44648228820_2488da5877_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2b2pQUC)[/url]

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7845/31526622047_b94f2a0f0d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2b2pQUC)[url=https://flic.kr/p/Q2Ubn6]

[wakebum2507]

Decided to get with it since i'm about done with the bolt-ons, and install a catch can, seeing how much some people are pulling out of theirs, and the amount of blow-by some of you are getting.

Install wasn't bad, minus the elbows and having to take the airbox and smooth tubes on and off to get the routing right.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7900/32718019758_07d9cfeff2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RRbpoW)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/RRbpoW)

[Gen3CoupeTX]

I've enjoyed following this thread. Thanks for sharing!!

[Steve M]

Keep an eye on those factory oil cooler lines...it's not a matter of if, but when they'll start leaking on you. I think we sufficiently beat that dead horse in this thread:

https://driveviper.com/forums/threads/146-Oil-Cooler-Line-Replacement-Gen-IV

[wakebum2507]

Keep an eye on those factory oil cooler lines...it's not a matter of if, but when they'll start leaking on you. I think we sufficiently beat that dead horse in this thread:

https://driveviper.com/forums/threads/146-Oil-Cooler-Line-Replacement-Gen-IV

i definitely need to swap them. will be ordering JTSVP lines like I had on my Gen3, most likely.

[Steve M]

i definitely need to swap them. where's the best place to buy the replacements?

I got mine through Dan Lesser (Viper Specialty Performance): http://viperspecialtyperformance.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/22_34/products_id/196

He has lots of different versions available that incorporate quick disconnects, but the prices go up very quickly for the added convenience.

[Steve M]

i definitely need to swap them. will be ordering JTSVP lines like I had on my Gen3, most likely.

Those should work too. They use an adapter fitting (Dan's use hose ends that do not require an adapter), but as long as you are okay with the additional connection, it should work.

[Grimlock]

Where did you get that paint protection film I see on the fender in the picture of your exhaust work?

[viperBase1]

[/url]

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7845/31526622047_b94f2a0f0d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2b2pQUC)
Sweet! Man you are wasting no time.
That looks so good.

Not sure how I feel about Smooth Tubes either (without boost). The throats are so big it doesn't seem like it'd make much difference.
I also want to believe the the corrugated tubes provide some kind of beneficial turbulence to the air flow on the margins of the input stream.
They look cool enough, but they don't rock my world.


Decided to get with it since i'm about done with the bolt-ons, and install a catch can, seeing how much some people are pulling out of theirs, and the amount of blow-by some of you are getting.

Install wasn't bad, minus the elbows and having to take the airbox and smooth tubes on and off to get the routing right.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7900/32718019758_07d9cfeff2_b.jpg
(https://flic.kr/p/Q2Ubn6)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/RRbpoW) [url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/105462168@N06/]


Good deal. I think every car should have an Oil Catch Can.
But the route of the input to the Can.. what source did you tap?


She's officially a green monster now.

I transfer to you, in whole and in part, my Trademark - SSG With Envy® :orange:

[wakebum2507]

@viperBase - I just went with the smooth tubes because I think they look a little cleaner. I’ve heard 5hp, but who really knows.

As far as the catch can, it’s the factory valve off the front of the passenger side valve cover. Into the can, then back out to the factory port on the air box. Seems to be working fine so far. Will put some mileage on it and check.

Did some spirited driving this morning, and the car is running great. Did some pulls to 140 or so, and realized I need to have it aligned after I played with the suspension. Scheduled for Monday morning!

[wakebum2507]

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[wakebum2507]

Doubt I see much from this, but adding the IPSCO UDP tonight, along with the k&n high flow air filter.
Headed to japan for 12 days, then she’s going on the dyno to see what my total pick-up is. Hoping for 585whp or so.

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Also finished my garage tile install, after fighting with my OCD, I decided on a pattern.

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Tucked away.

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[wakebum2507]

Had a local friend and professional do a full paint correction on the car over the last week. The paint wasn’t in bad shape, but I knew it could be better. It’s going to get a full Xpel front end, and side skirts, followed by one coat of gtechniq CSL, and two coats of gtechniq Evo V4.
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We had a short cruise over the weekend after cars and coffee, with a pretty good attendance.
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Shortly after, the weather turned really nice, and a local photographer wanted to shoot the car. Here’s a teaser.

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[wakebum2507]

Another quick update on some deliveries and power numbers.

Finally got back on a dyno, post mods. This is one of a few DJ’s in Okc, and I’ve been told this one reads low, but at least I got some numbers from this thing! She ended up putting down 571/566. I’m sure I could get some more power out of it with HP Tuners, but I’m happy with the way it drives and it feels strong.
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I didn’t have time before the dyno session, but I also got some DSE goodies in the mail, and installed.
You can really see the difference in thickness/insulation between the OEM and the moroso pieces.
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Lastly, got a delivery of my ceramic coating from my favorite detailing place: obsessed garage.
I went with the Gtechniq CSL and Evo V4. It’ll get the Xpel applied this week, then I’ll lay down the 1 coat of CSL, followed by 2 coats of EVO V4.
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[Steve M]

I can't remember...did you dyno before the mods?

[wakebum2507]

I did. It was on a mustang dyno, and did a 483, 485, and somehow managed a glory pull of 500.
After talking to some local friends here, the DJ I was just on reads low, so I think it would do 585+, on another dyno.

[Steve M]

Yeah, they all vary. If you take it to the 1/4 mile, the trap speeds will tell you all you need to know.

[viperBase1]

Sweet. Massive power band!

[ky13]

Solid numbers!

[wakebum2507]

its been a little bit, and I'm finally getting around to doing the ceramic coating, since I just got the car back from having the Xpel Ultimate laid down. Everything went on smoothly, so I won't bore anyone with pictures of PPF being put on, since we've all see those videos.

The Gtechniq crystal serum light is one of the products offered by the company. Its the little brother to their accredited detailer only crystal serum ultra.
"Serum Light offers 80% of Professional Serum’s performance, but if applied incorrectly can be machine polished from your vehicle’s paintwork.

When it comes to adding gloss, resisting swirls, contaminant and dirt repellency, Gtechniq Crystal Serum and Serum Light are the pinnacle in paint protection."

following the CSL, i'll be doing two coats of ExoV4, their topper to the topper. Its probably a little much, but the two are generally done in the pair, and I had outstanding results on my Granite Crystal Metallic grand cherokee.

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The application went on just as the jeep's did: apply to a half or so of a panel, wait around 60 seconds for the product to flash, wipe with towel #1, then follow with towel #2, wiping an even larger section.

Wait a minimum of 12 hours for CSL to cure, then apply ExoV4. The gloss, clarity, and slickness of the two is outstanding. I did the same to my forgelines, for ease of cleaning from brakedust, dirt, and grime.

Here's a couple shots from the first half of the process:

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we're doing a private track day at Hallett Motorsports Park this coming sunday, so I'm also doing the trans fluid, since its pretty likely it still have OEM fluid from 2009 in it.

I'm replacing the stock stuff with Valvoline ATF +4 full synthetic to see how it feels.

[wakebum2507]

Well, spring is finally here. We're out of the 20's and 30's, and into the 50's-70's lately, so automotive enthusiasts are out and about.

No real updates on the car, just been driving it and enjoying it. I'm in the process of pricing out installs on the 3.55s for the rear end, and considering sending the TR6060 to calvo for the .80 5th gear treatment.

OKC has a Thursday Mega Meet once a month, and it was 68 and sunny yesterday, so it was just about perfect. It was a huge turnout, with a few colorful cars.

These events bring just about everything out, from low riders, to exotics, to drag cars. Jrod brought his 7 second real-street supra out (just got done winning his class at Tx2k), couple procharged 800+ whp coyotes, few vipers, generic lambos, etc.

A few modded vipers. The ACR has M&M Headers, custom side pipes featuring Borla XR1 mufflers, and sounds great.
My green car is a FBO car, so it makes a bit more power.
Josh's red SRT is likely the quickest, with american racing headers, custom side pipes with Magnaflow mufflers, UDP, air filter, HP Tune by chris delgado in houston, 18' CCW's, etc.

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Gemballa 997 turbo is one of my favorites...
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[mattssg]

killer car!!

[wakebum2507]

Well, I knew this wasn't going to be an easy one...

I waited a little while (got the car at the end of November, 2018...so not thaaat long) to decide if I wanted to do a gear set change, and go to the 3.55's everyone talks about. By now i've got all the bolt ons, so the gears are essentially the last piece of the puzzle.
I had spoken with a number of you, Alex (sneaky), Steve M, etc. I was concerned I wouldn't be able to run well at the half mile events (one in Kansas coming up) and other legal and illegal forms of fun. I was told it would be fine, and with the right tire, it would accelerate harder.
Everyone had said it could be a nightmare job. I had heard the 2008 cars were more difficult than others. Luckily my car is an 09 so I was thinking "maybe, just maybe, this will all go as planned.".

I drop the car earlier in the week, and as I suspected, a text on Thursday morning, when I was thinking i'd get to pick the car up...

"Yeah...these shafts...you were right. We can't get them out." Delightful! Nothing comes easy.

I knew the car was in good company while it sat in the shop
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The diff has moved around OKC a few times, and ended up at a dodge dealership after hours in the hands of a viper tech that apparently knew exactly what he was doing.

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Apparently, he was prepared for a task like this, and has done a few in his day.

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Picking her up tomorrow, and plan to make some 'outside meetings' at the office to get some miles on her. Temps in the 70s this week...so pretty good driving weather.
I'll provide some updates and driving impressions as this moves forward, but i'm very very excited. Looking forward to getting the break in period over, so I can do some 2nd gear hits and see what its all about. Some Mustangs around here asking if I just look at the car or if I drive it...soo...

[viperBase1]

Sweet!

Lots of diff work being done these days.
What's that metal frame apparatus all about?
Second time we've seen it this weekend.

Hey when it comes to the diff fluid change consider Redline. Best I've used so far.

Those Mustangs can't keep up.
Toy with 'em in 1st and 2nd gear n then drop the hammer in 3rd to finish em off.

[wakebum2507]

Sweet!

Lots of diff work being done these days.
What's that metal frame apparatus all about?
Second time we've seen it this weekend.

Hey when it comes to the diff fluid change consider Redline. Best I've used so far.

Those Mustangs can't keep up.
Toy with 'em in 1st and 2nd gear n then drop the hammer in 3rd to finish em off.

I think the frame is a spreader, of sorts? Not sure, def not in my computer science realm of knowledge.

I actually already have some redline in my garage waiting to go in, along with the friction modifier, as soon as the break in miles are done.

Some of these mustangs should give me a run for my money. I'm down on HP compared to them, but they're heavier. We shall see!

[Steve M]

What's that metal frame apparatus all about?

It's a case spreader...the diff is shimmed so that the carrier bearings have preload, which means it ends up being a snug fit where you have to tap the assembly into the housing with a mallet when it goes together. In order to get it out, you need to be able to either pry it out, or use a case spreader to relieve the preload so you can pull it out by hand.

[viperBase1]

I actually already have some redline in my garage waiting to go in, along with the friction modifier, as soon as the break in miles are done.
Good deal. After seeing the recent flurry of posts about Diffs, went for a cruise Sunday morning just to check for Diff noise.
Nuthin'.. So smooth n' quite. Better than ever. Really glad for this alternative. Options are a good thing for our Vipers.


Some of these mustangs should give me a run for my money. I'm down on HP compared to them, but they're heavier. We shall see!
From my experience, the Mustangs can't put all that power down.
There seems to be something fundamentally flawed about the way they drive and handle.


It's a case spreader...the diff is shimmed so that the carrier bearings have preload, which means it ends up being a snug fit where you have to tap the assembly into the housing with a mallet when it goes together. In order to get it out, you need to be able to either pry it out, or use a case spreader to relieve the preload so you can pull it out by hand.
So the case doesn't actually come apart/split open and this step has nothing to do with removing the shafts. Right?
I just need to get this stuff sorted in my brain.

[Steve M]

From my experience, the Mustangs can't put all that power down.
There seems to be something fundamentally flawed about the way they drive and handle.

After having one nearly take me out at the drag strip last year, I think you might be on to something here.


So the case doesn't actually come apart/split open and this step has nothing to do with removing the shafts. Right?
I just need to get this stuff sorted in my brain.

Correct - the differential case is a solid casting with a single access point (the rear cover). The case spreader has nothing to do with removing the stub axles...that can be done with the unit fully assembled. The case spreader is intended to ease the disassembly process when changing the ring and pinion gears, and that's about it. If you end up splitting the case, you've spread it too far ;)

This post on the other site was a fantastic write-up detailing a DIY ring and pinion swap...the pics have since stopped working, which is a real shame given the quality of the information: https://www.viperclub.org/vca/threads/my-diy-differential-gear-change.659129/#post-3129296

[wakebum2507]

Update: these cars should have come like this from the factory.

That is all!

[S281e]

What about doing 3.73s?

[wakebum2507]

What about doing 3.73s?

I personally feel like that would be too steep of a gear. The 3.55's are aggressive as it is, so its already struggling for traction in 1st and 2nd, and the 3.73's would only make that worse.

[v10viperbox]

What about doing 3.73s?

I have 3.55's with ~750hp its almost unlivable on street tires.

The 3.73 would be nuts. I actually tell people building turbo cars to go the other way and find a set of 3.09's.

[wakebum2507]

Just got to make a few licks on the new rubber. WOW. What a difference. Car is rollin now.
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[viperBase1]

Nice!

I see the 275 for the fronts, are the rears 345's?
Did you notice any increase in road/tire noise?

Pretty sure I'm gonna go back to Toyos for the next tire change.

Congrats man, those bad boys hook it up! :dude3:

[wakebum2507]

Nice!

I see the 275 for the fronts, are the rears 345's?
Did you notice any increase in road/tire noise?

Pretty sure I'm gonna go back to Toyos for the next tire change.

Congrats man, those bad boys hook it up! :dude3:


I did go 275/35/18 front to get a little more sidewall, with a cushier ride. Stuck with the 345/30/19 out back, since that is as wide as Toyo makes them.
Made a couple licks yesterday and it finally hooks from 60, so that's a goooood feeling.

Honestly didn't notice any increase in road noise over the corsas, but those weren't quiet tires either. Keep in mind, my car has headers, HFC's, and 3" side pipes. So, all I really hear is exhaust, for the most part. Lol.

[wakebum2507]

Local photographer wanted to shoot the car, so here are a couple teasers. Love thing thing!
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[wakebum2507]

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[99RT10]

Very awesome!

[wakebum2507]

The belanger resonators are coming out, in favor of a Borla XR1. I'm hoping this doesn't change the tone too much, just eliminates the little bit of drone.

This is a true 3" straight through, so it'll still breathe just fine.

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[Steve M]

Nice...definitely curious to know what you think of the difference.

[wakebum2507]

Nice...definitely curious to know what you think of the difference.

I definitely will. A buddy here in OKC did a custom setup of M&M headers, 3" j pipes, to these mufflers, with no cats, and says he has no drone issues. Hoping mine with the high flow cats is the same.

[Stealth78]

Car is looking awesome brother! Sorry if I missed it, have you done 3:55's yet? I had similarly built my SSG, crazy how much those mods wake it up!

[wakebum2507]

Car is looking awesome brother! Sorry if I missed it, have you done 3:55's yet? I had similarly built my SSG, crazy how much those mods wake it up!

Sure did. Scroll up about 20 posts. I think its been the biggest bang for buck mod so far. Certainly feels like the car has closer to 700whp with the 3.55's.

[efnfast]

And yet you're considering downgrading to a Gen V.

As a fellow Gen IV SSG owner I hissss in dissssssspointment in your general direction :P

[wakebum2507]

And yet you're considering downgrading to a Gen V.

As a fellow Gen IV SSG owner I hissss in dissssssspointment in your general direction :P

only maybeeee....

[Stealth78]

Sure did. Scroll up about 20 posts. I think its been the biggest bang for buck mod so far. Certainly feels like the car has closer to 700whp with the 3.55's.

Sorry, now that I'm on my PC I noticed the post right away. Agree, definitely made a huge difference!

[viperBase1]

Downgrading to a Gen V..

No don't do it.
We're on the cusp of truly rare "Classic Car" de$ignation.

Hang on for the ride!

[wakebum2507]

Downgrading to a Gen V..

No don't do it.
We're on the cusp of truly rare "Classic Car" de$ignation.

Hang on for the ride!

if it doesn't sell, i wont be heartbroken. I'm going to do some noise reduction/isolation on the inside in the mean time to see what affect that has on the cabin, because i'm curious, and bored at times.

[wakebum2507]

small updates here: yes, I did list the car for sale. Had a buyer initially, then his wife got a little upset, so here we are.

The only real complaints I had with the car were the drone from the 3" belanger, which sounds amazing at W-O-T, but was a little drone-y at highway speeds, and the cabin noise, which just left me feeling like the car wasn't quite refined enough.

I'm fixing both of those issues as we speak. The interior is getting fully noise insulated via 75Sq/Ft of some Dyno-mat like material. I'm pulling seats, carpet, waterfall, trunk liner, and door panels. From some research i've done, this should cure the road noise/tire noise from the meaty R888r's.

Second up is the exhaust: while I absolutely love the noises that come out from them, the 3" straight through resonators just weren't enough. A couple local OKC guys (shout out Josh and Mical) let me take their gen V's out for some spirited driving to size up exhaust. Mine sounds the best hands down, but also drones.
Josh runs a custom V-banded setup, that consists of ARH long tubes, catless mids, and magnaflow mufflers. I had this setup on my gen 3, and didn't love it, but wanted to give it a shot. Mical runs M&M headers, catless 3" j pipes, and Borla XR1 mufflers. This setup sounds very very good, has more low end, and none of the drone, since the muffler (key word here) is a larger diameter, compared to the belanger resonator.

A buddy of mine said he'd help me out, so this is what I ended up with - Belanger long tubes from my previous install, to the same high flow cats, to 3" Borla Xr1's.

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for reference - here's the belanger resonator. See how much larger in diameter the Borla is?

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[Stealth78]

While the matting might help it seems nothing really takes that noise away from the R888R's. It's like that hummm just penetrates through everything. After a couple thousand miles on them I feel as if I've grown numb to the sound though.

Surprised you didn't give the Corsa's a shot. Good sound and zero drone. I loved mine!

[wakebum2507]

Well, the swap to the borlas is a hit. It definitely drones less on the highway, although I do still hear the road noise from the R888r's. Guess maybe i'll go sport cup 2's if the car stays in my garage on the next round.

Went forward with my plan to do some noise insulation, and I think it makes a pretty significant difference. Its crazy how much sound comes in through the door areas. I also matted the entire trunk space and waterfall of the car, but I forgot to take photos.

Here's what I did with the doors: layer of mat on the outer shell of the door, acoustic foam, then another layer of mat on the inner door, under the door panel.

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[wakebum2507]

Since apparently I can't stop tinkering with things, I decided to tackle the diff lube while I had some free time, and take the rear of the car down 1/4" inch more on the coilovers.

She got some fresh Redline 75W140 with friction modifier, per the manual. Diff is whisper quiet per usual!

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[viperBase1]

So wake what happened.

I saw your other post about this SSG being sold and another post about a GenV Silver GTS.

Has the dust settled? Where you at?

[wakebum2507]

So wake what happened.

I saw your other post about this SSG being sold and another post about a GenV Silver GTS.

Has the dust settled? Where you at?

Car is gone as of last wednesday. The new buyer flew in, and drove back to Vegas. He was very excited to take ownership of the car, so I gave him the usual "first viper" run down. No wide open throttle in corners, power oversteer>Understeer, premium fuel only, etc etc.

Right now i'm taking my time and shopping around. Not in a huge hurry to get anything else in the garage right away, so we will see what happens. Thinking GT3, GT4, Gt350(if i'm feeling cheaper) or something with a special motor. Not sure yet, hence the taking my time.

[viperBase1]

My vote is for the GT4!

[Hathoway]

Car is gone as of last wednesday. The new buyer flew in, and drove back to Vegas. He was very excited to take ownership of the car, so I gave him the usual "first viper" run down. No wide open throttle in corners, power oversteer>Understeer, premium fuel only, etc etc.

Right now i'm taking my time and shopping around. Not in a huge hurry to get anything else in the garage right away, so we will see what happens. Thinking GT3, GT4, Gt350(if i'm feeling cheaper) or something with a special motor. Not sure yet, hence the taking my time.

Vegas you say....hmmmmm

[ACR-ISH]

Sounds like he's having exhaust problems and is seeking out answers already, lol.

Congrats on the sale!

[wakebum2507]

What exhaust issues??

[ACR-ISH]

I think he's curious if he needs to swap them out (including his ECU, for emissions). Here's the link: https://driveviper.com/forums/threads/24900-New-Guy

[wakebum2507]

I think he's curious if he needs to swap them out (including his ECU, for emissions). Here's the link: https://driveviper.com/forums/threads/24900-New-Guy

ah, yeah we never had smog stuff here, so I have no clue on it.