Center Console

Complete removal and installation procedure for the center console assembly on a 1992 Dodge Viper, including shifter trim, electrical connections, and mounting hardware.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Center console assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes for airbag system discharge
3. Set transmission to neutral position for shifter trim access
4. Remove any loose items from console storage compartments

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove shifter trim bezel
   Grasp the shifter boot and trim bezel surrounding the shift lever. Pull upward firmly to release the retaining clips. The bezel lifts straight up and off the shifter. Set aside in a protected location to avoid scratching the finish.
2. 2

   Disconnect shifter boot from console
   Locate the shifter boot attachment point at the base of the shifter opening in the console. Remove the 4 Phillips screws securing the boot retainer ring to the console top surface. Lift the boot assembly free from the console.
   Torque spec

   Console Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Remove front console trim cover
   At the front of the console near the firewall, locate the front trim cover. Remove 2 Phillips screws securing this cover (one on each side). Carefully pry the cover upward using a trim tool to release any remaining clips. Set aside.
   Torque spec

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

   Disconnect electrical connectors
   Locate any electrical harnesses routed to the console for accessory switches or courtesy lights (if equipped). Use masking tape to mark each connector's location. Depress the locking tabs and disconnect all harness connectors. Route the harnesses clear of the console assembly.
5. 5

   Remove front console mounting bolts
   Access the front mounting points through the opening created by removing the front trim cover. Remove 2 mounting bolts (10mm) securing the front of the console to the floor/transmission tunnel brackets. Retain the bolts and any washers.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove rear console mounting bolts
   Reach behind the console assembly to the rear mounting area. Remove 2 mounting bolts (10mm) securing the rear of the console to the floor pan. These may be accessed from inside the console storage area or from beneath the console depending on trim configuration.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove console assembly
   With all mounting hardware removed, carefully lift the console assembly upward and rearward. Guide the console over the shifter lever, taking care not to damage the leather or vinyl surfaces. The console should lift free as a single assembly. Inspect the mounting brackets and floor pan for damage or corrosion.
8. 8

   Install replacement console assembly
   Position the new or refurbished console assembly over the shifter lever, aligning the mounting holes with the floor pan brackets. Lower the console into position, ensuring all electrical harness routing paths are clear and no wires are pinched beneath the console base.
9. 9

   Install rear mounting bolts
   Install the 2 rear console mounting bolts (10mm) and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure the console is properly seated against the floor pan before final torquing.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Install front mounting bolts
    Install the 2 front console mounting bolts (10mm) through the front access area and tighten to specification. Verify the console is aligned properly and sits flush with the surrounding carpet and trim.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Route the electrical harnesses to their original positions as marked during removal. Reconnect all harness connectors for accessory switches and courtesy lights, ensuring each connector locks securely with an audible click.
12. 12

    Install front trim cover
    Position the front trim cover over the console front opening. Press downward to engage any retaining clips, then install the 2 Phillips screws (one on each side) and tighten to specification.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Install shifter boot and trim
    Position the shifter boot retainer ring over the shifter opening in the console top. Install the 4 Phillips screws through the retainer ring into the console and tighten to specification. Ensure the boot material is properly seated and not twisted.
    Torque spec

    Console Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Install shifter trim bezel
    Align the shifter trim bezel over the shift lever and boot assembly. Press downward firmly until all retaining clips engage with audible clicks. Verify the bezel sits flush with the console top surface on all sides.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect battery negative terminal after all work is complete
2. Verify all console storage compartments open and close properly without binding
3. Test all electrical functions (power windows, courtesy lights) to confirm proper harness connection

Verification

• Shift transmission through all gear positions to verify shifter operates without interference from console or trim
• Check console for any movement or looseness by applying moderate pressure at multiple points
• Verify all trim panels and bezels are flush and properly seated with no gaps
• Confirm all electrical switches and lights function correctly
• Inspect shifter boot for proper seating without tears or binding

More procedures for this vehicle