exhaust

Exhaust Tip

for 2002 Dodge Viper 8.0L V10 · RWD

Difficulty

Easy

Time

24 min

Tools

Steps

✓Fact-checked. Built from OLP's spec database, then independently fact-checked line by line with every correction applied. Master-tech sign-off by Chris Hackleman is queued. Cross-check torque values against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. How our data is made.

Replace or install exhaust tip(s) on the 1992 Dodge Viper V10, including removal of old tip(s), cleaning mounting surfaces, and securing new tip(s).

Warnings

⚠️Allow exhaust system to cool completely before starting work. Exhaust components can remain hot for over an hour after engine shutdown and cause severe burns.

⚠Exhaust tips may be seized to the tailpipe from heat cycling and corrosion. Apply penetrating oil and allow time to soak before attempting removal.

⚠Support vehicle only on manufacturer-approved jack points. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

Tools required

Floor jackEssential

Jack stands (2)Essential

Wheel chocksEssential

10mm socket and ratchet

13mm socket and ratchet

Penetrating oil

Wire brush

Shop towelsEssential

Torque wrenchEssential

Anti-seize compoundEssential

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Parts

Exhaust tip × 2 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent
Exhaust clamp (if applicable) × 2 — Use OEM specification

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Preparation

Park vehicle on level surface and allow exhaust system to cool completely (minimum 2 hours after last operation).
Place wheel chocks behind front wheels to prevent vehicle movement.
Raise rear of vehicle using floor jack at approved lift points and support securely on jack stands rated for vehicle weight.
Visually inspect exhaust tips to determine attachment method (slip-fit with clamp, welded, or bolt-on).

Procedure

1
Access Exhaust Tips
Position yourself under the rear of the vehicle with adequate lighting. Locate both exhaust tips at the rear terminus of the tailpipes. The 1992 Viper features side-exit exhaust that exits through the lower rocker sills on each side of the vehicle. Verify the exact tip configuration and mounting location on this specific vehicle before proceeding. Inspect the connection point between each tip and the tailpipe to identify fastener type (typically clamp or bolted flange).
2
Apply Penetrating Oil
Spray penetrating oil generously around the joint where each exhaust tip meets the tailpipe. Focus on clamp bolts or fasteners and the slip-fit interface. Allow penetrating oil to soak for 10-15 minutes to ease removal of corroded components.
3
Remove Fasteners
If tips are secured with clamps: Loosen and remove clamp fasteners using the correct socket size (verify fastener size against this specific vehicle before proceeding). If tips are bolted via flanges: Remove flange fasteners. Work each fastener gradually to avoid stripping threads. If fasteners are severely corroded, apply additional penetrating oil and use proper fitting sockets to prevent rounding.
4
Remove Old Exhaust Tips
With fasteners removed, twist exhaust tip gently while pulling to break any carbon seal or corrosion bond. If tip is seized, avoid open flame near the Viper's fiberglass body panels; use gentle mechanical persuasion and additional penetrating oil. If heat is absolutely necessary, use it sparingly and keep it well away from any body panels or heat shields. Remove both tips completely from the vehicle.
5
Clean Mounting Surfaces
Use wire brush to thoroughly clean the outer surface of each tailpipe end where the new tip will mount. Remove all carbon deposits, rust, and old gasket material. Wipe clean with shop towels. Inspect tailpipe ends for damage, excessive corrosion, or cracks that would prevent proper seal.
6
Prepare New Exhaust Tips
Inspect new exhaust tips for any shipping damage or debris. If tips use slip-fit design, verify inner diameter matches tailpipe outer diameter with proper clearance. If using clamps, inspect clamp threads and condition. Apply thin coat of anti-seize compound to the inner surface of the new tip where it will contact the tailpipe to prevent future seizing.
7
Install New Exhaust Tips
Slide new exhaust tip onto tailpipe end, ensuring it is fully seated to the proper depth (typically 2-3 inches of overlap). Rotate tip to achieve desired angular position and alignment with vehicle body. Repeat for second side, ensuring both tips are positioned symmetrically.
8
Install and Torque Fasteners
Install clamps or flange fasteners finger-tight first. Verify tip alignment and depth are correct on both sides before final tightening. If using clamp-style attachment, tighten clamp fasteners evenly to secure tip without crushing the tailpipe. If using bolted flanges, torque fasteners to the manufacturer-specified value (verify torque spec against factory service documentation for this vehicle). Ensure tips do not contact body panels or suspension components throughout their full range of movement.

Reassembly

After securing exhaust tips, perform final visual check to ensure both tips are aligned symmetrically and positioned at same depth on tailpipes.
Verify no contact exists between tips and body panels, suspension components, or chassis.
Lower vehicle from jack stands carefully and remove supports.

Verification

Start engine and allow to idle. Listen for exhaust leaks at tip connection points (hissing or ticking sounds indicate improper seal).
Check for visible exhaust gases escaping from tip joints during idle and light throttle application.
Verify exhaust tips remain secure and do not rattle or vibrate excessively during engine operation.
After test drive, re-inspect all fasteners for proper tightness and check tip alignment has not shifted.