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Unlock A Deeper, Drone Free Voice For Your Explorer ST
The B917-C917-C is a full 3 inch catback exhaust system built specifically for the 2020 to 2025 Ford Explorer ST 3.0L EcoBoost. Running true 3 inch T304 stainless steel from the factory downpipe connection all the way to the rear tips, the B917-C917-C replaces the acoustically restrictive factory piping with mandrel bent tubing that increases exhaust flow while keeping the cabin livable on long highway stretches. Thermal R&D built the B917-C917-C around its True Helmholtz Technology muffler design, which is tuned to cancel resonant drone frequencies at cruising RPM without muting the aggressive tone under throttle. Every B917-C917-C system bolts to the OEM hanger locations and requires no cutting or welding for a straightforward weekend install.
Key Features
- Full 3 inch T304 stainless steel mandrel bent tubing from front pipe connection to tips
- True Helmholtz Technology muffler tuning cancels cabin drone at cruise
- Black ceramic coated dual angle cut tips sized for the factory Explorer ST valance
- Direct bolt on install using OEM hanger points, no cutting or welding required
- Does not alter the factory catalytic converters or emissions equipment
- Backed by a lifetime manufacturer warranty on the B917-C917-C system
Fitment Table
| Year Range | Make | Model | Trim |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-2025 | Ford | Explorer | ST |
Specifications
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Part Number | B917-C917-C |
| Brand | Thermal R&D (Thermal Research and Development) |
| System Type | Catback exhaust with mid pipes |
| Pipe Diameter | 3 inch throughout |
| Material | T304 stainless steel, mandrel bent |
| Tip Finish | Black ceramic coated, angle cut |
| Drone Elimination | True Helmholtz resonator technology |
| Mounting | OEM downpipe connection, OEM hangers |
| Installation | Bolt on, no cutting or welding required |
| Country of Manufacture | USA (Lancaster, California) |
What's Included
- B917-C917-C 3 inch mid pipe and catback assembly
- Black ceramic coated dual exit tips
- All factory style hardware and clamps needed for a complete install
- Installation instructions
About Thermal R&D
Thermal R&D designs and builds its exhaust systems in Lancaster, California, focusing on flow gains and a controlled exhaust note rather than raw volume. The company's True Helmholtz Technology muffler tuning is used across its catback and frontpipe back lineups to reduce cabin drone at cruising speed while preserving an aggressive tone under acceleration. Every Thermal R&D exhaust system, including the B917-C917-C, carries a lifetime manufacturer warranty and is built from mandrel bent T304 stainless steel for long term corrosion resistance.
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FAQ
What is the B917-C917-C?The B917-C917-C is Thermal R&D's full 3 inch catback exhaust system for the 2020-2025 Ford Explorer ST, replacing the factory piping from the downpipe connection back with mandrel bent T304 stainless steel and black ceramic coated tips.
Will the B917-C917-C fit an Explorer ST with a factory tow package or factory dual exhaust?Yes, the B917-C917-C uses the factory hanger locations and downpipe connection points on all 2020-2025 Explorer ST trims, so factory tow package or trim differences do not affect fitment.
Does installing the B917-C917-C require any cutting or welding?No. The B917-C917-C is a direct bolt on system that connects at the OEM downpipe outlet and uses the factory hanger locations, so no cutting or welding is needed.
Is the B917-C917-C legal for daily street driving?Yes, the B917-C917-C retains the factory catalytic converters and does not alter the vehicle's emissions equipment, so it is intended for street use in the same manner as the factory exhaust.
How much drone will I notice at highway speed with the B917-C917-C installed?Thermal R&D tunes the B917-C917-C muffler with True Helmholtz Technology specifically to cancel the resonant frequencies that cause cabin drone, so most owners report a controlled cruising tone with the aggressive character showing up under acceleration.
Can I install the B917-C917-C myself, or should I have a shop do it?Most owners install the B917-C917-C at home with basic hand tools and a jack and stands, since it bolts to the factory hangers without cutting, though a shop install is always an option if you prefer.
Does the B917-C917-C come with a warranty?Yes, the B917-C917-C is backed by Thermal R&D's lifetime manufacturer warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
What is the difference between the B917-C917-C and the polished tip version of this exhaust?Both systems share the same 3 inch mandrel bent T304 stainless steel construction and Helmholtz muffler tuning. The B917-C917-C uses black ceramic coated tips, while the polished tip version uses bare polished stainless tips instead.
Install Instructions
- Allow the exhaust system to cool fully, then raise the Explorer ST on a lift or jack stands with adequate clearance underneath.
- Remove the factory catback exhaust starting at the OEM downpipe connection, releasing each factory hanger isolator as you work toward the rear.
- Test fit the B917-C917-C mid pipe section at the downpipe connection, leaving all clamps loose for adjustment.
- Route the remaining sections back through the factory hanger locations, seating the black coated tips within the rear valance openings.
- Align the tips evenly side to side and adjust the overall system position before final tightening.
- Tighten all clamps to the specified torque, then start the vehicle and inspect every joint for leaks before returning it to the road.
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