Ignition Control Module

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the ignition control module (ICM) on the 1992 Dodge Viper 8.0L V10, located on the driver's side of the engine compartment.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition control module (ICM) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Thermal compound or heat sink grease × 1 — Mopar or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure engine is cool to the touch
3. Disconnect battery negative terminal using 10mm socket
4. Wait 2 minutes for capacitor discharge in ignition system
5. Open hood and secure with prop rod

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate ignition control module
   The ICM is mounted on the driver's side inner fender near the firewall, below the brake master cylinder. It is a rectangular black module with a single large multi-pin connector and 2 mounting bolts. The module is mounted to a metal bracket that serves as a heat sink.
2. 2

   Disconnect ICM electrical connector
   Press down on the locking tab on top of the electrical connector and pull straight out from the module. Use needle-nose pliers if the connector is difficult to release. Do not pull on wires. Inspect connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
3. 3

   Remove ICM mounting bolts
   Remove the 2 mounting bolts securing the ICM to the bracket using an 8mm socket. Support the module with one hand while removing the second bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove ignition control module
   Carefully pull the ICM straight away from the mounting bracket. The module may be adhered to the bracket with thermal compound. If stuck, gently twist while pulling - do not pry against the module itself.
5. 5

   Clean mounting surface
   Remove all old thermal compound from the mounting bracket surface using a clean rag. The mounting surface should be clean, flat, and free of debris to ensure proper heat transfer from the new module.
6. 6

   Apply thermal compound to new module
   Apply a thin, even layer of thermal compound or heat sink grease to the back surface of the new ignition control module. Use only enough to create a continuous film - excess compound can act as an insulator rather than conductor.
7. 7

   Install new ignition control module
   Position the new ICM onto the mounting bracket, aligning the 2 bolt holes. Press firmly to seat the module against the bracket and establish thermal contact. Thread both mounting bolts by hand before tightening.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Tighten ICM mounting bolts
   Torque the 2 mounting bolts to approximately 8 Nm (6 lb-ft), alternating between them. Do not overtighten as this can warp the module housing and damage internal components. Verify the exact spec against the vehicle service manual.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of the connector housing if desired. Align the connector with the module pins and press firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Tug gently on the connector body to verify it is fully seated.
10. 10

    Reconnect battery
    Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten the terminal clamp using a 10mm socket. Ensure the connection is clean and secure.

Reassembly

1. Reconnection follows removal in reverse order
2. Ensure electrical connector fully seats with audible click
3. Verify thermal compound contact between module and mounting bracket
4. Do not reuse old thermal compound - always apply fresh material

Verification

• Turn ignition key to ON position (do not start) and verify no check engine light codes related to ignition system
• Start engine and verify smooth idle with no misfires or hesitation
• Rev engine gently to 2000-3000 RPM and verify stable operation
• Test drive vehicle and confirm proper acceleration and throttle response under various load conditions
• If misfires or rough running persist, verify electrical connector is fully seated and inspect spark plug wires for proper connection

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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