2005 Dodge Viper Owner's Manual - Page 114

114 STARTING AND OPERATING After Starting The idle speed will automatically decrease as the engine warms up. Be sure the transmission is in FIRST gear, (not THIRD), when starting from a standing position. Damage to the clutch can result from starting in THIRD. For most city driving you will find it easier to use only the lower gears. For steady highway driving with light accelerations, 6th gear is recommended. Never drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal, or try to hold the vehicle on a hill with the clutch pedal partially engaged. This will cause abnormal wear on the clutch. Never shift into REVERSE until the vehicle has come to a complete stop. NOTE: During cold weather, until the transmission lubricant has warmed, you may have difficulty shifting. This is normal and not harmful to the transmission. WARNING! Never pour fuel or other flammable liquid into the throttle body air inlet opening in an attempt to start the vehicle. This could result in flash fire causing serious personal injury. TRANSMISSION SHIFTING NOTE: The parking brake should be engaged and the gear selector placed in REVERSE before leaving the vehicle, especially on an incline. Fully depress the clutch pedal before you shift gears. As you release the clutch pedal, lightly depress the accelerator pedal.