Dodge Viper Gen 3 & 4 Wide body conversion coming soon!

[Timnineside]

At first I know this is going to put a lot people into Viper-shock. I know I am going out on a limb here but in the dare to do something different world I live in I'm taking my 2006 Coupe in an entire different direction.

I recently purchased this kit below. It is going on my car and I am working with the seller and should have more if there is interest. Because this is preliminary and I don't have exact details I'll share what I do know and the rest will follow soon.

Included in the kit is:

Front & rear fender flares
Roof scoop
Front facia


The front facia is obviously Gen V GTSR inspired. It is OEM fascia width so if wanted it would be a great face lift for the 2003-2010 cars by itself. I'll be mounting the front facia to my car to confirm this and show overall fitment and flow with and without the wide body. It is slightly more forward and a bit lower in the front but overall should sit slightly more aggressive then stock.

The flares are mounted via black silicon (same stuff used on windshields I'm told) screws and/or rivits on the inner fender wells. This will eliminate drilling into the cars exterior. I don't know how well silicon is for the paint, however this modification isn't for the faint of heart. I will personally be running this kit as-is for this driving season. I have a feeling next winter I will flush and smooth the kit directly into my fenders and side sills but I'll keep posted on that.

Higher offset wheels are a must. I will be measuring this out and have a company on standby for custom 3 piece forged wheels. The wheels will have a very negative offset and we are planning to take the rear wheel down to a 12" for a better looking sidewall to avoid the "stance" look as you see in the pictures. The wheels in the picture are ACR wheels that were cut and welded. That is not something I want any part off so custom wheels will be a must.

I see no reason why this kit wouldn't fit the convertible Vipers other then the fuel door. I'm sure that is something we can work around if interest is there.


I know this is going to be a love/hate thing here. Please keep the negative comments to a minimum although we all do enjoy the entertainment value.


Pictures of the Viper as well as a kit for the Porsche Cayman.

9039904090419042

[Timnineside]

90459046

[Redx]

Is this a vipair kit?

[Timnineside]

Is this a vipair kit?

No. This was originally a one-off kit designed out of the country. I am working with the manufacture as we speak about being the US distributor for him. It's all tentative and I didn't want this to come off as a "but this" thread. As of now we have verbal agreements but most importantly getting it on my car and seeing what makes sense and what works.

-Tim

[Redx]

Not my style, looks like they are trying liberty walk style without the liberty walk quality. Either the pics are really crappy or it just doesnt look well with the viper lines. Not to mention, total fail on the fitment with those rims. If your going big fender, you better fill and tuck it, otherwise why even do it at all?

If your going widebody, why not go street serpent? Nice modest kit, without worry about getting crazy offset rims.
http://driveviper.com/forums/threads/4150-Street-Serpent
http://driveviper.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=5581&d=1403541491

[Redx]

Now, if you can do this with a viper, good on you!

http://www.motorward.com/wp-content/images/2014/11/lb-aventador-00-600x333.jpg

Might aswell go air ride, airrex has a kit out.
http://store.gaugemagazine.com/images/products/detail/viper1.jpg

[Timnineside]

Not my style, looks like they are trying liberty walk style without the liberty walk quality. Either the pics are really crappy or it just doesnt look well with the viper lines. Not to mention, total fail on the fitment with those rims. If your going big fender, you better fill and tuck it, otherwise why even do it at all?

If your going widebody, why not go street serpent? Nice modest kit, without worry about getting crazy offset rims.
http://driveviper.com/forums/threads/4150-Street-Serpent
http://driveviper.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=5581&d=1403541491

I agree with everything you said. I know it's not everyone's taste but I personally like it.

It's like a Liberty Walk kit yes, and actually I have been talking with Liberty Walk and they have zero intentions for doing anything for the Viper. Which is a bit unfortunate but is what it is.

I agree on the wheels. That was a total fail. I think they are stretched as well as offset. Looks bad but these are all issues I intend to address. My plan is also to get much better quality pictures of the kit. Also to note this kit is much less then the street serpent, and last I checked those molds were for sale.......

-Tim

[SA Heat]

Doing my part to keeping negative comments to a minimum. :o

[99RT10]

Me too................... Don't do it, just don't.

[Timnineside]

Doing my part to keeping negative comments to a minimum. :o

Just the thought keeps a smile on my face.

- - - Updated - - -


Me too................... Don't do it, just don't.

Trust me on this one! I got it. I promise it'll look great when I'm done.

[Timnineside]

9047

Proof that given two basically identical kits are completely open to interpretation.

[Redx]

9047

Proof that given two basically identical kits are completely open to interpretation.

Google shows it as chris browns viper, so a turd like him its not surprising money doesn't buy brains. http://www.roadstarr.com/CarGallery.php

Reminds me of this:
http://i69.servimg.com/u/f69/12/69/99/95/mc_d_b10.jpg

[LATAMUD]

I'm been thinking of a wide body for my Gen3 for a while. How much width does this add to the car? Street Serpent was 2" overall. This new kit looks like 4" or more.

[Dajerseyviper]

Ill say it....It looks FUCKING HORRID...Veilside used to make ricer kits like that for the imports..Please dont do it..

[Shooter]

This kinda reminds me of that ACR body kit...X-10 or something. Had a huge wing and splitter. I heard it actually worked, but I never saw one in the wild.

[BlknBlu]

hello Corvette Summer.

http://www.bestwayrent2own.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Corvette-Summer-1973-Corvette.jpg

Bruce

[FLATOUT]

That Viper from the Middle East:( Sorry really not a fan.

[Srt10]

that looks terrible. the form and shape doesn't flow well, and it looks cheap with screw holes because it is just panels screwed on.

these screw on panels are all the craze now i guess. it all started with liberty walk from japan and a old 911. now every super car seem to have this type of kit.

http://www.airsociety.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Porsche-911-993-964-bagged-airrex-accuair-car-porn-racing-airsociety-rwb-rauh-welt-begriff-005b.jpg
http://s1.cdn.autoevolution.com/images/news/ferrari-f12-goes-body-building-liberty-walk-kit-rendered-71251_1.jpg

[plumcrazy]

not feeling it

[FrgMstr]

hello Corvette Summer.

http://www.bestwayrent2own.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Corvette-Summer-1973-Corvette.jpg

Bruce

But when I was 10 years old, it was the damn bomb! At least it does not look like it was put together with parts from the fastener isle at Home Depot. :)

[ViperTony]

The only body kits that were stellar were the Street Serpent kits made by Jeff Lemke back in the day for the GenIII. Jeff moved on to his Falcon project but I would at least call him to see if there's any chance he can make you a kit. Those pics of the viper isn't a wide-body kit but looks like a Viper with muffin tops/thunder thighs. Horrible. I understand what you're trying to do but damn.

[The_Greg]

The idea of a widebody kit is to put a larger contact patch on a car, right? I don't think the Viper has ever struggled with mechanical grip.

[ACRucrazy]

http://www.reactiongifs.com/r/ZuMBmk0.gif

[ViperSmith]

a wide body kit could work

i think any kits that have rivets and look like they are "stuck on" no matter what the make, just look terrible - to me.

but if it makes you happy i reckon

[99RT10]

hello Corvette Summer.

http://www.bestwayrent2own.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Corvette-Summer-1973-Corvette.jpg

Bruce


That car is a classic and anybody would be proud to own it.............................


I actually almost bought it when it came up on ebay a few years back. :D

[intense]

I like the fascia. Is the black lip on the bottom a separate splitter that was added, or is it one piece just not painted blue all the way down. Sorry to say though, hate the rest. Looks like something you'd see on a kids' tuner Honda Civic.

[RedTanRT/10]

This kinda reminds me of that ACR body kit...X-10 or something. Had a huge wing and splitter. I heard it actually worked, but I never saw one in the wild.


Terry Rossi built the X-10 about 3 years ago. Most of the body except for the roof was carbon fiber. Wanted to build more but bad economic timing. Viper sold and now resides in England or France.

If the OP is interested in this body, send me a pm and I'll get you in contact w/Terry



9060


9059

[Rocket]

Loved my Street Serpent Wide Body ..... this bolt-on ..... not so much!
http://driveviper.com/gallery/data/500/medium/Serpent2_Large_.JPG

[ViperTony]

Loved my Street Serpent Wide Body ..... this bolt-on ..... not so much!
http://driveviper.com/gallery/data/500/medium/Serpent2_Large_.JPG

This.

[TrackAire]

Personally, I love it. I know it is over the top, but if done correctly it looks very mechanical and track ready. I like the aspect of the "bolt on" look with exposed hardware. If you look at most professional DTM type race cars, they use very similar types of body panels. This is something that has to be pretty extreme to work....once you try and blend it in like a traditional wide body, it won't work. My favorite look is the Rocket Bunny Aero kits. It isn't for the faint of heart, but a Gen 3/4 coupe with this kit done correctly and the right wheels would really stand out.

I still feel that Rossi's X-10 kit is probably the most aero effective for a race car when you look at his lap times and the kit looks good too. I would definitely be interested in Terry's kit if it was available since it replaces body panels and does not go the glue on and drill route which is pretty hard on the original body panels.

[Timnineside]

I respect everyone's opinion and to be honest I'm surprised to see as many people that are actually positive about this.

I'll keep posted but to for anyone that knows me or have seen my car's itll be as good as it can get with what I have. Thanks for the feedback!

[MtnBiker]

Why??????

[Timnineside]

Why??????

Personally I like the look. I also like the look of the liberty walk stuff though so maybe I'm weird.

The front fascia took a little to grow on me and to be honest I'm still not sure about it. I think it'll change my mind once it's painted though. Also I will not be running the roof scoop on my car. I think it takes away from the look. What I will be adding is the Autoform TA coupe spoiler on the back. My original idea was to run the stock OEM fascia and add a ACR splitter. That still may be a route I go but I'll get all the parts in my garage and play with it.

-Tim

[Bmw2nv2000]

The more i look at those flares the more im thinking all matte black car with matte black 18/18's with huge 6" rear and 3" front lips and the mentioned autoform spoiler,acr splitter would make for one of the baddest vipers ever! Of course car would have to have full headers with straight pipe exhaust to sound nasty enough to pull off that look.
Def no to the bumper thou. Too poser looking imo

[Steve M]

I'll wait to see the final pics...looks a bit rough, but that's understandable. I don't have high expectations, but it should be interesting...what do you intend to do with the car? Just a show piece?

[TooBlue]

Hmmmm......???

Good luck with your project.



FWIW.... Jeff sold his Street Serpent wide body molds. The parts will be available.

[Voice of Reason]

I'm not a fan of the Liberty Walk / Bushwacker fender flares at all. They belong on Jeeps and lifted trucks and that's it. But cudos to them in their business model, if I could slap a couple pieces of plastic on an expensive car and rivet them down and charge what they do I'd do it to.

[PittsburghRT]

Are those flares made by Bushwacker? I would rather have the Corvette Summer car. The Street Serpent is awesome though.

[98intrigue]

Hmmmm......???

Good luck with your project.



FWIW.... Jeff sold his Street Serpent wide body molds. The parts will be available.
I knew he sold the molds, but are you saying the body panels will be available for purchase again in the future?

[Dajerseyviper]

Why modify such a stunning and rare car like the Viper? Why?

[MalingatorGTS]

While I know the "look" is in right now, I say, test fit it without making any changes to the body and see how it looks. Any time you go against the "norm" lots of people don't like it. It's your car, I say go for it and see how it looks! Will await more updated pics.

FWIW, I have seen some cars done in this style that look fantastic! Isn't everyone's taste but that's what makes cars what they are. Everyone does their own thing. Sometimes stepping out of the box is a good thing.

[FrankBarba]

Maybe Autoform will chime in....I'd covert my CC to a G5 Body....GT3 only way to go...

[serpent]

Not my style, looks like they are trying liberty walk style without the liberty walk quality. Either the pics are really crappy or it just doesnt look well with the viper lines. Not to mention, total fail on the fitment with those rims. If your going big fender, you better fill and tuck it, otherwise why even do it at all?

If your going widebody, why not go street serpent? Nice modest kit, without worry about getting crazy offset rims.

http://driveviper.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=5581&d=1403541491
Front grill reminds me of an electric shaver:
https://www.shaverspares.com/img/uploads/Braun%20370%2032s.jpg

[HobokenViper]

If it floats your boat, then go for it as that what should matter most to you, not what we say on here. But just be prepared for most people who see it to wonder why you did such a horrid and cheap looking thing to such an otherwise beautiful car. I expect that the Jeep and honda civic community will love it as that's what they do to their cars, but I'm anticipating most people who buy higher end sports cars to look at it in disgust. I just think it makes an expensive car look cheap and crappy.

On another note, I actually think that the new grill isn't half bad. Gives the front end a nice different look, closer to the Gen V. But if I'm being honest with you (and please don't take this the wrong way), the bolt on panels, ESPECIALLY the ones in the rear quarters of the car, look incredibly cheap and just awful. Does not flow with the lines of the car, and actually ruins the look and makes it look like a cheap honda civic from a bad neighborhood with a crappy bolt on body kit.

I have seen a kit like this on a Lamborghini that suits it well, but that car has the edgy look and lines to support it and that wide body kit actually seemed to be of much higher quality than this Viper one does. The other Viper wide body kits in other pics in this thread actually look pretty good if done right. I hope you plan to keep your Viper forever because I doubt you'll find anyone to buy it after you do this.

[ZZ SRT]

I'm one to push the limit as well. I had aggressive fitting wheels on my 97 and I cut off the inner fender lip to fit them and a few people told me I ruined the car, so you just have to ignore those people.

Here's my honest feedback. I like the Liberty Walk cars, but the fit and finish, and fitment of their wheels, stance, etc is what makes it work.

When you receive this kit, how much work you put into it will be what makes/breaks it. I have faith that you'll make it as good as it can be and the wheel fitment shouldn't be an issue if you are going custom and do your homework measuring.

Here's what I don't like.

See this Liberty walk rear flare? It terminates but does it in a way to match the body lines.

http://i1344.photobucket.com/albums/p645/ZZ70SS/ferrari-f12-goes-body-building-liberty-walk-kit-rendered-71251_1_zpsa97490f6.jpg

http://i1344.photobucket.com/albums/p645/ZZ70SS/9e8d32bf-a48e-49b1-b4d0-47d9ee0c24d7_zpse2cfd45c.jpg

Here's the problem with the Viper flare.

http://i1344.photobucket.com/albums/p645/ZZ70SS/IMG_5364_zpsfa9e031b.jpg

http://i1344.photobucket.com/albums/p645/ZZ70SS/0100e4af-bcfd-4066-aff2-e7b564498655_zps4cb5e468.jpg

I hate how the rear flare ends abruptly, and it does it in a way that screams "oh shit, there's a tail marker light here, let's end the flare so it doesn't hit it".

With the bumper protruding slightly on the Gen 3/4 about 6 inches down, they should have just continued the flare around the wheel well, narrowing it to blend into the bumper, and then made a provision to move the mounting point of the tail marker light on the flare, or just made a recessed area for the light.

[commandomatt]

While I am all for tasteful, cool and high quality upgrades on our Vipers, this does not fit into that category by a long shot.

Just looks like an afterthought and pulled directly out of a JC Whitney catalog.

I, for one, am sorry to see that you intend to do this to your beautiful car

[Timnineside]

I'm one to push the limit as well. I had aggressive fitting wheels on my 97 and I cut off the inner fender lip to fit them and a few people told me I ruined the car, so you just have to ignore those people.

Here's my honest feedback. I like the Liberty Walk cars, but the fit and finish, and fitment of their wheels, stance, etc is what makes it work.

When you receive this kit, how much work you put into it will be what makes/breaks it. I have faith that you'll make it as good as it can be and the wheel fitment shouldn't be an issue if you are going custom and do your homework measuring.

Here's what I don't like.

See this Liberty walk rear flare? It terminates but does it in a way to match the body lines.

http://i1344.photobucket.com/albums/p645/ZZ70SS/ferrari-f12-goes-body-building-liberty-walk-kit-rendered-71251_1_zpsa97490f6.jpg

http://i1344.photobucket.com/albums/p645/ZZ70SS/9e8d32bf-a48e-49b1-b4d0-47d9ee0c24d7_zpse2cfd45c.jpg

Here's the problem with the Viper flare.

http://i1344.photobucket.com/albums/p645/ZZ70SS/IMG_5364_zpsfa9e031b.jpg

http://i1344.photobucket.com/albums/p645/ZZ70SS/0100e4af-bcfd-4066-aff2-e7b564498655_zps4cb5e468.jpg

I hate how the rear flare ends abruptly, and it does it in a way that screams "oh shit, there's a tail marker light here, let's end the flare so it doesn't hit it".

With the bumper protruding slightly on the Gen 3/4 about 6 inches down, they should have just continued the flare around the wheel well, narrowing it to blend into the bumper, and then made a provision to move the mounting point of the tail marker light on the flare, or just made a recessed area for the light.

I couldn't agree with you more. I do have to say there are some small things about the kit that I'm not 100% in love with. But with that being said it's a huge step in the right direction (in my opinion).

The wheel fitment, suspension and overall flow of the car is #1 to me. I have wheels getting built that will be spot on with what is being shown with the Liberty Walk cars. I'm also working on suspension but that's a gray area for me so more research is being done.

For me its more then ruining a beautiful car. Don't get me wrong I love my car but the urge to modify and want more and customize it was I love. I have never had a vehicle I left 100% stock and in the past have went from light to extreme modifications on my Vipers. Hell my GTS was one of if not the first matte black Viper in the world and now you can go buy a brand new Gen V in a matte finish.

I assure everyone it will look amazing when I'm done. It may not be to everyone's taste and style, but it will be unique and pretty wicked. I feel I will change a lot of minds on here in the next few weeks. If nothing else I'll love it!

-Tim

[Rocket]

And that's what it's really all about!!!! Good luck with the project!


If nothing else I'll love it!

-Tim

[HobokenViper]

You are right, you might make a pretty darn ugly Viper out of your currently beautiful car (in most people's opinion), but as long as YOU enjoy it is all that matters.

With that said, I'm sure there will be a lot of guys here crying themselves to sleep tonight because there will be yet another "dolphin viper" out there once you finish this project. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder I guess.....heck some guys have a strong attraction to morbidly obese women, while the rest of us scratch our heads and get nauseous at the mere thought of that. To each their own, and that's what makes the world go round.

[TooBlue]

I knew he sold the molds, but are you saying the body panels will be available for purchase again in the future?

Yes. In carbon fiber and Kevlar

[slysnake]

Do what you want, it's your car. (Although I did laugh a lot at the above "dolphin viper" comment)


Might aswell go air ride, airrex has a kit out.Was that a Copperhead? If so, I'm going to count that as one less Copperhead in the world, thus rasing the value of the few remaining. :)

[intense]

Was that a Copperhead? If so, I'm going to count that as one less Copperhead in the world, thus rasing the value of the few remaining. :)

The wheels look awesome on it. The paint not so much.

[Timnineside]

The wheels look awesome on it. The paint not so much.

My plan for my coupe is a very similar wheel to that however I think I'll need even more lip and more concave to achieve what I'm going after. I don't think the front of that car is wider, pretty sure the suspension allows his wheels to tuck.

My wheel of choice is a 5 spoke concave with a decent lip because I won't have a choice but to have a lip. Probably going all black but I'll have to wait and see the flares on first.

-Tim

[slowhatch]

http://driveviper.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=9042&d=1424660428

Looks like shit.

http://i.imgur.com/2tpwKh5.gif

[kirkinsb]

Every day another Viper bites the dust my basically stock Viper gets more valuable!!!! I say do it!!!

[Crotalidae]

Looking forward to the finished product...

[Bmw2nv2000]

You really love to here your own opinion. Sorry to call you out but one flaming opinion is cool but any more puts ya on the douche bag list.
How old are you? Ive always been under the impression that you have to be on life support to drive a Buick. But hey as long you like driving a Buick thats all that matters. Right?






You are right, you might make a pretty darn ugly Viper out of your currently beautiful car (in most people's opinion), but as long as YOU enjoy it is all that matters.

With that said, I'm sure there will be a lot of guys here crying themselves to sleep tonight because there will be yet another "dolphin viper" out there once you finish this project. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder I guess.....heck some guys have a strong attraction to morbidly obese women, while the rest of us scratch our heads and get nauseous at the mere thought of that. To each their own, and that's what makes the world go round.

[HobokenViper]

You really love to here your own opinion. Sorry to call you out but one flaming opinion is cool but any more puts ya on the douche bag list.
How old are you? Ive always been under the impression that you have to be on life support to drive a Buick. But hey as long you like driving a Buick thats all that matters. Right?

You're a regular stand up comedian aren't you? Love it. But name calling, dropping the d-bag accusation is a little bit over the top and uncalled for though, no??? Seems someone took their grumpy pills today.....

Being a huge car guy, I hate to see someone ruining an otherwise beautiful car with ugly body cladding that belongs on a pimp's Honda Civic, so guess it struck a nerve and I had a little too much to say about it. Sorry.......but I'm clearly not alone here. As I said, to each their own, and I guess one less sale-able Viper out there just makes mine more rare and valuable, so maybe I SHOULD keep my mouth shut. LOL

As for my age and the Buick.......the Buick is my wife's car to cart around my 8 month old and 3 year old, and was entirely her choice. I actually really liked it once she got it as it really is a nice car. Guess you're stuck in the 90's when Buick's truly were old fart cars.....well times have changed buddy, and there's a lot more to cars than a brand name these days. Having always only owned sports cars my whole life, I never thought I'd ever own a Buick, but they have totally reinvented themselves recently with all their former customers having kicked the bucket, and with young families now snapping them up in large numbers.

And I'm probably a lot younger than you at age 35.

[Bmw2nv2000]

Do you get upset when your opinion isn't valued high enough? =) Just busting your chops brotha, but the OP has been a long time member and asset to the Viper community so continually dumping your negative opinions on his thread is a douche move. Im betting he wont be in your threads dumping on you repeatedly just because he values his opinion so much.
Maybe its a geographical thing but in my area a lot of grey hair buying the new buicks.
Ironically Im 35 too and have a 3 yr old and a 1 month old. I too have family rides but sure aint no Buicks lol
http://i1278.photobucket.com/albums/y501/bmw2nv2000-2/08%20black%20acr/Beemer-Caddy_zpsjrnbpb72.jpg (http://s1278.photobucket.com/user/bmw2nv2000-2/media/08%20black%20acr/Beemer-Caddy_zpsjrnbpb72.jpg.html)

[Shooter]

There are definitely some pretentious types here. Wow.
Timnineside, if nobody thought outside the box, this would be just another Corvette forum.

[HobokenViper]

Do you get upset when your opinion isn't valued high enough? =) Just busting your chops brotha, but the OP has been a long time member and asset to the Viper community so continually dumping your negative opinions on his thread is a douche move. Im betting he wont be in your threads dumping on you repeatedly just because he values his opinion so much.
Maybe its a geographical thing but in my area a lot of grey hair buying the new buicks.
Ironically Im 35 too and have a 3 yr old and a 1 month old. I too have family rides but sure aint no Buicks lol
http://i1278.photobucket.com/albums/y501/bmw2nv2000-2/08%20black%20acr/Beemer-Caddy_zpsjrnbpb72.jpg (http://s1278.photobucket.com/user/bmw2nv2000-2/media/08%20black%20acr/Beemer-Caddy_zpsjrnbpb72.jpg.html)

Dude, the OP will do whatever he wants regardless of what my opinions are. No skin off my back if you or the OP disagree with whatever I say, and I'm sure he feels the same way about lots of us busting his balls about his plans for his car. This is an open forum which will have differing opinions by design, especially when something is a little more controversial like in this thread, which he even admitted that he anticipated. But that's no reason to start calling people names..... And besides, if you haven't noticed, virtually everyone else on his thread also threw up in their mouth a little at the sight of what he is going to do to his poor Viper. But that doesn't mean he's not a cool guy and a great contributor to the Viper community, because I'm sure he is.

And maybe it is a geographical thing about Buick's, because Buick Enclaves and their sister car, GMC Acadias, are a dime a dozen in the general area that I live in. I know you're probably going to laugh at this, but it almost seems like they have recently become status symbols for some of the wealthier moms up here, as most people driving them up here are young moms with kids. I for one could care less what brand name my wife's family car is as I have nothing to prove to anyone, nor does she. As long as she's happy is all that matters to me!

PS: I like your other rides, especially your blacked out BMW. I actually considered getting one of those myself when I bought my Lexus IS 350 F-Sport last year. But you do realize that your Escalade also shares a lot of the same parts and components with it's sister brand's Buick Enclave? LOL

[Bmw2nv2000]

Like I said man just busting you balls, I laughed at your first post but the second time you took a swing rubbed me I guess. BTW Nuthing wrong with buicks, def still mostly grey behind the wheels here and never thought buick would ever pass the beemer/benz as ultimate luxury status. Myself I didn't want an old man 750LI till I drove the one I have. Now Ill sell all my rides before I sell the big beemer.

Agree with Shooter about Tim bringing the new to the game. I love to see what everyone does good or bad. Keep it coming Tim =) And actually Im far from the pretentious type just had to bust Hoboken balls

[HobokenViper]

No worries man, all good among friends on here. Sorry if anything I said may have bothered you, not my intent at all. Just having some fun breaking balls and making jokes about a body kit, that's all.....

I definitely don't think Buick has passed Mercedes or BMW as a status symbol, but it's definitely rising the ladder up here with all the "yuppies" going for them. Didn't see many Buick Enclaves on the road yet when we bought ours a few years ago, but now seems like tons of people in our neighborhood in our age bracket have one or are getting them. And I hear you on not thinking you would ever buy that full size BMW 7 series, as I wouldn't have been caught dead driving a Buick 10 years ago myself. Having a nice cushy luxury car is really nice when all you're used to is small sports cars with tight suspensions. Now I love the Buick as a big comfortable SUV to take my family around in, even though my wife has smashed it into our house more times than I care to admit. Let's just say that we're probably single handedly putting our local body shop guy's kids through college..... Haha!

And for the record, I don't think anything you said was pretentious at all. And with that I'm finally off to bed now that my kids are finally asleep......

[Sybil TF]

Every day another Viper bites the dust my basically stock Viper gets more valuable!!!! I say do it!!!:lol2:

[speedtactics]

I loved that car! And with Luke Skywalker driving it, Bad Ass!
But when I was 10 years old, it was the damn bomb! At least it does not look like it was put together with parts from the fastener isle at Home Depot. :)

[speedtactics]

This has already ben done better. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRTi3Vdad9E
Terry made this car and it was fast as hell, I was at the track with Terry when he was testing it a few years ago.

[speedtactics]

Track record run http://youtu.be/YBCPsHKOe2A
I am personally not a big fan of the looks but you can't argue with the performance gain, it looks like a DTM car.

[Vprbite]

Track record run http://youtu.be/YBCPsHKOe2A
I am personally not a big fan of the looks but you can't argue with the performance gain, it looks like a DTM car.

That car better be moving fast so no one has to look at it.

[witz323]

Back the Buick comments...my buddies and I rented the Enclave in Vegas for a golf weekend. That thing easily handled the 4 of us and 4 sets of clubs. When we returned it at the airport, we all kind of looked at each other and were like, that car was actually pretty sweet! This coming from 4 dudes in their early to mid 30s, none of whom own Buicks.

[HobokenViper]

Back the Buick comments...my buddies and I rented the Enclave in Vegas for a golf weekend. That thing easily handled the 4 of us and 4 sets of clubs. When we returned it at the airport, we all kind of looked at each other and were like, that car was actually pretty sweet! This coming from 4 dudes in their early to mid 30s, none of whom own Buicks.

Exactly! Glad someone else here isn't afraid to get stoned to death for putting aside the old stigma that used to be associated with Buick only a few years ago, and admitting to actually liking them. Haha!

These Buick's out today ain't your Granddaddy's Buick. Many are rebadged Opels from Europe, which are really sporty and generally attractive cars, and they did a helluva great job designing the Enclave and Lacrosse inside and out. Seriously never thought I'd ever be caught dead in a Buick, much less own one, but I actually really love it as the family-mobile. And at least I still have a fast little 4 door sports sedan to drive daily myself, and a Viper to take out on weekends in warmer months, so all is good in the world. Now could someone please just make this terrible winter finally go away already!!!!!

[pythonpete]

Also own an Enclave for the kiddies. Plenty of other cars but this one fits the bill for them

[Timnineside]

Just to keep stir the pot a bit more here is a Photoshop I did of the car. Yes, its rough but I did it myself and I'm quite proud of it! Never in my life have I even opened photoshop prior to this. My wife is a photographer so she helped me with the basics but made be fend for myself for the most part. After a few hours of frustration I got it down! Well, sort of.

Because my car is black I wanted to get a better idea.9271

[MalingatorGTS]

Nice job as I have ZERO PS skills. I actually like it! I would say, I might do the screws/rivets on the flares in black. I think they will look much cleaner then in the pic. Just my .02

[Vprbite]

I think it looks better in black then in blue.

[Rocket]

Agreed - just need to photoshop a better looking rear wheel/tire combination and it would look pretty cool! Definitely thinking modern Bat-Mobile!


I think it looks better in black then in blue.

[Steve M]

I could do without the Mohawk, but the black looks far better than blue for some reason.

[Timnineside]

Well I was hoping I would get something positive out of you all eventually!

Steve M, I agree. I am NOT doing the roof scoop. If there was purpose for it, maybe but I don't dig it. I'm going to PS out the rear wing today and cut the background out. Maybe toss in some lighting bolts and flames, who knows.......

[Vombomb]

9282 words... fail me...

[bluesrt]

:orange:
Do you get upset when your opinion isn't valued high enough? =) Just busting your chops brotha, but the OP has been a long time member and asset to the Viper community so continually dumping your negative opinions on his thread is a douche move. Im betting he wont be in your threads dumping on you repeatedly just because he values his opinion so much.
Maybe its a geographical thing but in my area a lot of grey hair buying the new buicks.
Ironically Im 35 too and have a 3 yr old and a 1 month old. I too have family rides but sure aint no Buicks lol
http://i1278.photobucket.com/albums/y501/bmw2nv2000-2/08%20black%20acr/Beemer-Caddy_zpsjrnbpb72.jpg (http://s1278.photobucket.com/user/bmw2nv2000-2/media/08%20black%20acr/Beemer-Caddy_zpsjrnbpb72.jpg.html)
you need to seal your driveway

[slowhatch]

:orange:
you need to seal your driveway

He's got an Escalade and 750 to service, he's prob bone dry.

[Timnineside]

Made some progress over the past day or so of work. More coming soon though as I have the next few days of work devoted to the Viper. So far, I've gotten excellent feedback from just the front fascia. It fits great, minimal work and flows very well. 938493859386

I can't seem to straiten the pictures out!

[Vprbite]

I can't seem to straiten the pictures out!

Using a Mac? I never have problems on my PC but when I use my IPad they flip sometimes. Unpredictably too. Like if it flips 90 degrees, so I go and turn it 90 degrees and re-upload the photo, that time it may not rotate. I think it's a Mac thing cause it's never happened with my PC.

And I think it looks good. Can't wait to see it color matched and with the wheels on.

Actually, if it wouldn't be too much trouble, can I get a photo of it with it color matched and with the wheels on but in front of a mountain stream and with a Victoria's secret model next to the car with her lips pursed and her head tilted ever so slightly, such that the look on her face is sexy but ambiguous...almost like I cant tell if she is saying "I need you" or "I don't need you but I still want you" or maybe with her head turned away all the way and her body turned towards me as if she was saying "I wish I didn't need you but I do dammit." ? That would help me get a better feel for How the bumper fits. Thanks.

[Vombomb]

Using a Mac? I never have problems on my PC but when I use my IPad they flip sometimes. Unpredictably too. Like if it flips 90 degrees, so I go and turn it 90 degrees and re-upload the photo, that time it may not rotate. I think it's a Mac thing cause it's never happened with my PC.

And I think it looks good. Can't wait to see it color matched and with the wheels on.

Actually, if it wouldn't be too much trouble, can I get a photo of it with it color matched and with the wheels on but in front of a mountain stream and with a Victoria's secret model next to the car with her lips pursed and her head tilted ever so slightly, such that the look on her face is sexy but ambiguous...almost like I cant tell if she is saying "I need you" or "I don't need you but I still want you" or maybe with her head turned away all the way and her body turned towards me as if she was saying "I wish I didn't need you but I do dammit." ? That would help me get a better feel for How the bumper fits. Thanks.

And can she be holding a baconator from wendy's... for reasons...

[Timnineside]

Using a Mac? I never have problems on my PC but when I use my IPad they flip sometimes. Unpredictably too. Like if it flips 90 degrees, so I go and turn it 90 degrees and re-upload the photo, that time it may not rotate. I think it's a Mac thing cause it's never happened with my PC.

And I think it looks good. Can't wait to see it color matched and with the wheels on.

Actually, if it wouldn't be too much trouble, can I get a photo of it with it color matched and with the wheels on but in front of a mountain stream and with a Victoria's secret model next to the car with her lips pursed and her head tilted ever so slightly, such that the look on her face is sexy but ambiguous...almost like I cant tell if she is saying "I need you" or "I don't need you but I still want you" or maybe with her head turned away all the way and her body turned towards me as if she was saying "I wish I didn't need you but I do dammit." ? That would help me get a better feel for How the bumper fits. Thanks.

Ask and you shall receive....

[Vprbite]

I know NineSide and he is a very resourceful man. I feel like if anyone can pull this off, it's him.

[Timnineside]

Got a little further today!





94189419

[Vprbite]

Looks better than I anticipated.

[DNRossi]

Progress is looking good! I think I am really liking the front fascia. I am interested to see the finished product. I wont judge you on something that you haven't done or finished yet.

This is just a thought and someone with more knowledge can feel free to chime in and correct me, but I have concerns about what adding that much offset to the front will do to the steering geometry. The further you move the wheel from the pivot point of the steering knuckle the larger you radius of movement becomes. I have ran into this before with 4x4 builds, but wheel offset has a much greater effect on swing radius of over sized tires than car tires. Two main concerns that come to me when doing this: 1) inner fender clearance when turning 2) steering stability at speed and steering response.

Just throwing a couple thoughts out there to try and help you from having issues. I may be completely over thinking this.


-Dugan

[SA Heat]

:orange:
you need to seal your driveway

And some landscaping work wouldn't hurt either.

[Bmw2nv2000]

Lol thanks for the helpful advise guys. House/driveway had been completed less than 2 weeks at that time and temps hadnt gotten out of the 30's so no way to seal yet and i always go cheap on my landscaping. House sold a couple weeks later anyway.

Tim its def looking cool. I really thought that kit would look good on black. Very evil my friend

[Timnineside]

Here is the latest update: Thanks to Rick for driving all the way from Canada to pick this up and crack on his install in just a few days (enduring the cold weather). Rick decided to add some LED's to his fascia and will also be lowering the car soon with eibachs so the car should tie in nicely. His fascia is going to paint this week and hopefully have it done and final install soon. Rick is also planning to pull the lower spoiler off the fascia. Another nice thing about the design is you can run it with our without. The fascia sticks out about 3" more at the bottom and is around 3/4"-1" lower in the front with the lower splitter on.

9785978697879788

[St.Char]

Fitment is looking good Tim.
9789

[Viktimize]

Here is the latest update: Thanks to Rick for driving all the way from Canada to pick this up and crack on his install in just a few days (enduring the cold weather). Rick decided to add some LED's to his fascia and will also be lowering the car soon with eibachs so the car should tie in nicely. His fascia is going to paint this week and hopefully have it done and final install soon. Rick is also planning to pull the lower spoiler off the fascia. Another nice thing about the design is you can run it with our without. The fascia sticks out about 3" more at the bottom and is around 3/4"-1" lower in the front with the lower splitter on.

9785978697879788


Please tell me you plan to do this for the GenV in due time. All I have wanted since the GenV release was a GT-3R front bumper replica. This thing looks close enough.

[bluesrt]

looks like a good downforce front end, nice fit and finish

[slowhatch]

I'm starting to warm up to the front fascia.

In for painted pics, and pics with the Viper badge in oem location (looks so naked without it).

[Vprbite]

I think (obviously just personal opinion) that it will look much better without the front spoiler. Reason being the front looks too low compared to the side sills. Perhaps would look good with side splitters? Though I usually don't care for side splitters on anything but a dedicated race car, they might look good with this being lower.

In my experience, body kits take a lot of wrangling to get to fit. Twisting, shimming, just general convincing to fit right. How long was install on this, if you don't mind me asking.

And yes I want to see it painted and with an emblem too

For some reason, in my mind's eye, I see it looking good with a rear wing too. Just my opinion. I am looking forward to seeing it all finalized.

[Timnineside]

I think (obviously just personal opinion) that it will look much better without the front spoiler. Reason being the front looks too low compared to the side sills. Perhaps would look good with side splitters? Though I usually don't care for side splitters on anything but a dedicated race car, they might look good with this being lower.

In my experience, body kits take a lot of wrangling to get to fit. Twisting, shimming, just general convincing to fit right. How long was install on this, if you don't mind me asking.

And yes I want to see it painted and with an emblem too

For some reason, in my mind's eye, I see it looking good with a rear wing too. Just my opinion. I am looking forward to seeing it all finalized.

ASK and you shall receive! This thinks are lined up pretty well. There is very minimal shimming and twisting. The main issue we have is trimming the rear bumper support. We are working to solve this issue or at least keep it to a minimum. Either way your looking at a few hours or a short weekend by the time you fit, drill and remove the OEM. Nowhere near as bad as one would think.

See below the vert with the lower splitter removed. I agree is adds a "custom" car presence to the Viper and would benefit from one or all of the following: Lowered, custom wheels, splitters, wing (spoiler). It's styled from the GTS-R Gen V so that really plays to the fact that it can take more body add-ons opposed to mounting to a mainly factory car. Not saying that would look bad, just mentioning it.

982798289829

[TheBatman]

I joined specifically to watch this thread.
Currently I do numerous appearances as Batman for sick Children and fundraisers that benefit children and the elderly.

I love the look of this kit as a real world batmobile including the roof vent.

[ACR Steve]

Like it but then again I am a Porsche guy too and love the kits for the wide body on them

[malcoll]

So what was the end result.

[ACtechOPS]

This is the only shot I have of Tim's car, prior to paint, taken last year. With regards to the wide body kit, in the end he finished his "one of" and suspended plans for any further development due to lack of interest. Custom wheels to get the offset right.

22529

[plumcrazy]

it looks great

[Bmw2nv2000]

Ive got that Liberty Walk style kit in storage now. I figure I'll get bored one day and start the install on my 06 and order new wheels with 6" lips to fit it.

[ACtechOPS]

Did you get the kit from Tim? His is also an '06. I think it looks wicked but those huge wheel lips are killer. Do you plan on going the extra mile and extending the fender flares front and back?

[SA Heat]

Just need a big-assed Weiand blower to complete the look.

22555

[03Topless]

I have the liberty walk body kit as well, hmmmm

[Bmw2nv2000]

Wow. A real liberty walk kit?

[VIPER BAZ UK]

Looks great on some cars and not others...

Lambo looks great .. Front of the Porsche looks good but not the rear. personally not keen on the viper..

[luvboost]

interesting...

[Timnineside]

So what was the end result.

Just a quick update (It's been a long day). The "ordered" kit was a mess to say the least. Luckily I happened to live very close to Autofrom in Holland, MI. Steve and I are good friends and been tossing around some ideas. I ended up bringing the Viper to him and went to work. He, his team and me getting in the way came up with what we believe is a great kit that suits the Viper very well. I'm going to post a few previews but will be starting a new thread soon with more info in regards to it's name, pricing, and process. I know everyone wont like it and I suppose that's the point. So far we've gotten amazing feedback from very unlikely sources.

2842128422284232842428425

[99RT10]

That is awesome. Congrats to you both!!! Is there a Conversion klit for the converts too?

[TrackAire]

I look forward to seeing a quality kit come out.....the Gen 3/4 aftermarket has been very stagnant and new products coming out will be exciting.

[Rand]

The one part I do like is the air intake on the roof (seems to tie in well with the air intake on the hood) and I always wondered why Dodge did not make that an option. Please verify the roof intake is functional? Thx

[ACRucrazy]

The part that sticks out to me is the gap between the side sill and the flare right above the exhaust. It seems out of place to me, even though I see its part of the straight line from the front flare to the rear bumper.
IMO all 3 flares should be brought down lower because of this. Just my thoughts while looking at it.

[luvboost]

what happened to the previous kit?

[Timnineside]

The part that sticks out to me is the gap between the side sill and the flare right above the exhaust. It seems out of place to me, even though I see its part of the straight line from the front flare to the rear bumper.
IMO all 3 flares should be brought down lower because of this. Just my thoughts while looking at it.

Yeah the kit is going though slight change to "solve" that. It's been addressed a few times with a lot of head scratching but Steve and the guys have a direct plan and should have it wrapped up in the next week or so. The plan originally was to tie in a much larger rear splitter with a canard however we are looking to appeal to a mass market with the kit and the decision was made to blend it a little better.

[Timnineside]

what happened to the previous kit?

Nixed it. Nothing about it made sense for the Viper. Steve had a vision which I have a new found respect for and know's a lot more about these cars, the market, design and a million other things I could go on and on about.

[Timnineside]

That is awesome. Congrats to you both!!! Is there a Conversion klit for the converts too?

There will be. We sort of foreseen this coming with there being a lot of gen 3 verts out there. It'll take a little re-working but the basics are there. For the right person there may be the opportunity to get dibs on the first kit but it'll come at a cost and longer wait time.

[Timnineside]

The one part I do like is the air intake on the roof (seems to tie in well with the air intake on the hood) and I always wondered why Dodge did not make that an option. Please verify the roof intake is functional? Thx

I'm not sure i'm 100% following you? Do you mean the intakes on the side quarters? As of now, not functional however it's "an idea" to make them work and in my famous last words "wont take much" but what I really mean is Steve will figure something out when needed.

[ACtechOPS]

Whatever the price is, factor in a new set of custom wheels for the massive offset. Also, wondering what form this kit will take. Assuming it will be add-on parts like the original (since manufacturing complete fenders etc. would be cost prohibitive to both Autoform and the buyer), a parts kit would require extensive body work to blend in all the pieces and then basically a repaint. The cost would be high. If complete panels were produced, this would be an opportunity for the Vert owners to get the coupe rear end. More money again, but since the rear quarters would have to be redisigned anyway, add in the custom decklid and coupe bumper and you're there. Tim, I'm going to assume that Autoform will offer a turn-key package? I'm guessing around 20K including paint. As you all know, doing anything to a Viper does not come cheap and that figure could climb depending on the wheels. The conversion kit on my car would conservatively run you 10K if a body shop did it. Personally, if the gap issue at the bottom were fixed I would consider it. Love the look and happy that companies like Autoform+Tim still share our passion.

[TrackAire]

Although this kit never made it into mass production, it appears to be a track rats dream:

http://www.viperx10.com/index.html

Start with a Gen 3 coupe, add the body kit, suspension and wheel upgrades and have a car that is going to be faster than 99.9% of any street car you'd encounter on the track.

I do like the aspect of full replacement body panels so it is possible to put the car back to stock if so desired. If you don't like the raw carbon look, just wrap it or plasti dip the car for the track and you're good to go. If you're making a show car, then paint is always an option.

[ACRucrazy]

Although this kit never made it into mass production, it appears to be a track rats dream:

http://www.viperx10.com/index.html

Start with a Gen 3 coupe, add the body kit, suspension and wheel upgrades and have a car that is going to be faster than 99.9% of any street car you'd encounter on the track.

I do like the aspect of full replacement body panels so it is possible to put the car back to stock if so desired. If you don't like the raw carbon look, just wrap it or plasti dip the car for the track and you're good to go. If you're making a show car, then paint is always an option.

One of my favorites. I wish more became of it.