Armrest

Remove and replace the center console armrest assembly on a 1992 Dodge Viper, including release of mounting fasteners and disconnect of any interior trim connections.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Center console armrest assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trim panel clips (if damaged) × 4 — Mopar standard interior clips

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow interior to cool if vehicle has been in direct sunlight (leather and plastic components expand when hot)
3. Verify replacement armrest matches original configuration (with or without storage compartment lid)

Procedure

1. 1

   Open armrest compartment
   Lift the armrest lid fully to access the interior compartment. Remove any items stored inside the compartment and inspect for loose change or debris that may interfere with fastener access.
2. 2

   Locate and remove interior fasteners
   Inside the armrest compartment, locate the mounting fasteners. Inspect inside the storage area for mounting screws (fastener count, type, and Torx size unverified for the 1992 Viper — confirm against service documentation). Remove any screws found using the appropriate driver. Set screws aside in a container to prevent loss.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Check for rear mounting points
   At the rear base of the armrest (where it meets the console body), inspect for additional fasteners. Look for Torx screws or trim clips securing the armrest base to the console structure. Remove any fasteners found using the appropriate Torx driver.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Release trim clips at base
   Grip the armrest firmly at the base and apply gentle upward pressure while rocking slightly front-to-back. The armrest is retained by trim clips at the mounting points in addition to the screws. If resistance is felt, use a plastic trim tool to carefully release any remaining clips by inserting between the armrest base and console body. Work around the perimeter until all clips release.
   ⚠Do not force the armrest upward with excessive pressure. Unremoved fasteners or stuck clips can crack the mounting tabs on either the armrest or console.
5. 5

   Lift armrest assembly free
   Once all fasteners and clips are released, lift the armrest assembly straight up and away from the console. If a lid spring is present, control the lid to prevent it from snapping open during removal. Inspect the mounting points on both the removed armrest and the console for any broken clips or damaged threads.
6. 6

   Inspect mounting surfaces
   Examine the console mounting points where the armrest was attached. Check for cracks in the plastic mounting bosses, damaged screw threads, or broken clip receptacles. Clean any debris or dirt from the mounting surfaces using a dry cloth. If clips were damaged during removal, note their positions for replacement.
7. 7

   Prepare replacement armrest
   If installing a new armrest, verify it includes all necessary mounting hardware and clips. Transfer any reusable components from the old armrest if required. Ensure the lid mechanism (if equipped) operates smoothly before installation. Position any trim clips into the new armrest base if they mount to the armrest rather than the console.
8. 8

   Position replacement armrest
   Align the replacement armrest over the console mounting points. Ensure the front and rear edges are properly oriented and that mounting holes align with the console bosses. Lower the armrest into position, applying firm downward pressure to engage any base clips. You should hear or feel the clips snap into place.
9. 9

   Install mounting fasteners
   Insert the Torx screws into the mounting points accessed through the armrest compartment. Start all screws by hand to ensure threads engage properly. Using a Torx bit, snug the interior compartment screws hand-tight into the plastic mounting bosses — do not exceed roughly 2-3 Nm to avoid cracking the plastic. Install any rear-base fasteners to the same light snugness. Verify the exact torque against Viper service documentation before final tightening.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Test armrest operation
    Open and close the armrest lid through its full range of motion. Verify the lid operates smoothly and latches properly in the closed position. Check that the armrest does not rock or move when downward pressure is applied. Verify the armrest base sits flush with the surrounding console trim with no gaps or misalignment.

Reassembly

1. Torque all fasteners to specification using the values provided in the torque reference list
2. Replace any damaged trim clips rather than reusing broken or deformed clips
3. Verify all fasteners are fully seated before final torque application to prevent cross-threading

Verification

• Armrest lid opens and closes smoothly without binding or unusual resistance
• Armrest base is secure with no movement when pressure is applied from any direction
• All mounting fasteners are torqued to 11.0 Nm (8.0 lb-ft) per specification
• Armrest sits flush with console body with consistent gaps around perimeter
• No rattles or loose components when driving over rough surfaces

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