Viper Reliability and General Feedback?

[Slopedeceder]

I currently have a 15’ Summit 800 etec 163, I am in the middle of replacing my s-module (I have a thread on this) and I suspect I will need to rebuild the engine at the end of the season based on compression and crank run out. I’m finding myself asking, would a 4 stoke (non-turbo) be a better option for me?

I generally only use my sled for access to go backcountry skiing. So that means a lot of doubling, travel on forest service roads, travel on mostly “already travelled areas”. Occasionally, use to it proper mountain sled, but this is generally a little playing around when not skiing.

There are some low mileage 2015 or 2016 Vipers mtx on market place. So I’m considering making the switch, but I need some real feedback on these sleds and their reliability. I don’t know if I should go a with used Viper Mtx or a Gen 4 Summit.

Engine aside, are they more reliable then an Gen 4 doo? I’m ok with the extra 60lbs if so.

Is there anything I need to check out or watch out for?

Additionally since they have a rad, in addition to a head exchanger, how are they for overheating when there is no powder on the trail. The cats are really bad for this.

 

[lilduke]

They are a reliable tank.

 

[mikermz250]

We had one in our group for a day a couple years back and it became the boat anchor of the group. Literally. Without the turbo they are really under power for any off trail deep snow riding with any type or incline. At one point I hopped on it myself to see if i could help get it through a drainage into our next area and at that point i realized we were fighting a losing battle trying to get this thing into the terrain we wanted to ride. It also very finicky starting if it wasn't level. I wouldn't recommend one for ski touring either i think in the 2 guys standing side saddle you would have a hard time controlling that beast.

Reliability though is probably pretty darn good as is most Yamaha products.

 

[Bnorth]

Reliable - yes
heavy - yes
heavy - yes
underpowered - yes

 

[lilduke]

The one i rode was 280hp. So power wasnt a problem.


But With no turbo, ya its probably just a big heavy turd. Lol

 

[Slopedeceder]

We had one in our group for a day a couple years back and it became the boat anchor of the group. Literally. Without the turbo they are really under power for any off trail deep snow riding with any type or incline. At one point I hopped on it myself to see if i could help get it through a drainage into our next area and at that point i realized we were fighting a losing battle trying to get this thing into the terrain we wanted to ride. It also very finicky starting if it wasn't level. I wouldn't recommend one for ski touring either i think in the 2 guys standing side saddle you would have a hard time controlling that beast.

Reliability though is probably pretty darn good as is most Yamaha products.

This is good feedback.

 

[Shadam]

Get another skidoo.
When u get that thing stuck u will regret the purchase. My crew used to run turbo nitros and it was very noticeable how skidoos would pop out of a stuck and the nitros just didn't want to get out and up on the snow.
Having said that, Vipers r a better platform.
Also parts may b a problem.

 

[M1ryguy]

If you don't care about the weight the motors last forever even on boost, do an oil change at the start of the season and gtg. if you can, find a sidewinder they come with a turbo stock and around 200 hp, way more maneuverable than the viper as well. I rode a sidewinder for years, still have it. One of the best sleds I have owned and the power is like nothing else.

 

[M1ryguy]

Also my gen 5 turbo overheats all the time on low snow trails or warmer weather, even with the extended snow flap. My sidewinder has never overheated and no rad or tunnel cooler on them either

 

[Slopedeceder]

This is all good feedback. I’ll take it into consideration, over the course of the season.

It’s really about tradeoffs. But ya, I’m sure if it get it stuck it will suck. I hear what your saying Shadam

 

[1200]

Just put a motor in your xm and ride it for another 10 000 km . Be better then a Yamaha or gen4/5. I think for what u are doing u have the best sled.

 

[mclean]

Unless you have nice trails everywhere you go, that na yammy will not be fun. Any side hill will be horrible, especially if you're doing side by side with a buddy.

 

[Slopedeceder]

Just put a motor in your xm and ride it for another 10 000 km . Be better then a Yamaha or gen4/5. I think for what u are doing u have the best sled.

That’s totally the other option. I’m just trying to decide if spending $2500 on a new engine, in a $4500ish sled is worth it.

But sometimes the devil you know, is better than the devil you don't…

 

[1100]

Just put a motor in your xm and ride it for another 10 000 km . Be better then a Yamaha or gen4/5. I think for what u are doing u have

Just put a motor in your xm and ride it for another 10 000 km . Be better then a Yamaha or gen4/5. I think for what u are doing u have the best sled.

I 100 percent agree. The only better option would be a 16 or 17 t3 174” so it has full coolers and more floatation for doubling off trail. Maybe a two up seat for when a guy gets sick of doubling standing up when on those long trails.

 

[climbmax]

Id say for sled skiing it would be a good option. Have a ton of experience with this sled and capabilities. Reliable as heck. Torque for towing skiers. its probably 50lbs heavier than comparable vintage 2 stroke. Can you tell if your fuel tank is empty or full when you ride a sled? Id suggest having the updated spindles and Skis on it though. No oil to add, easy on fuel, long seat for 2 up if thats in your program. 162 would be my suggestion. Good luck in your search.

 

[Sledder_boarder]

Reliable - yes
heavy - yes
heavy - yes
underpowered - yes

best answer

Sent from my Pixel 7 Pro using Tapatalk

 

[Slopedeceder]

I wanted to post an update. After considering all the feedback I received. I decided sticking with a doo was going to be the best decision. Shortly after I made this post I was out with a buddy who has an 2015 m8000. He got stuck a few times and as I was digging him out. I actually couldn’t picture myself muscling around another 70lbs. I’m not a big guy and carrying around a 25L gas jug is heavy (40lbs).



The comment about the lighter sleds just “pop out” better and it’s fine until your stuck really hit home (I spent many years of my childhood helping my dad get him RX-1 [ton] get unstuck).



I was just going to put a new motor in my 2015, but I ended up purchasing a buddies 2020 Summit Expert since the price was equivalent all said and done. I’ll be honest it’s a beast, probably overkill for what I do, but from the two times I had it out I can’t get over how much better it handles both on and off the trail, let alone the fact it seems to “pop out” way less easier and gets stuck less.


Anyway I appreciate all the feedback, I think without this thread I would have bought a viper instead.