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Unleash a Bold, Drone Free Tone From Your Explorer ST
The B917-C917 catback exhaust system transforms the exhaust note of your Ford Explorer ST while keeping cruising comfort intact. Engineered by Thermal R&D with True Helmholtz Technology, the B917-C917 eliminates the harsh interior drone that plagues most aftermarket systems, giving you an aggressive tone under throttle and a quiet, refined cabin at highway speed. Every B917-C917 system is mandrel bent from T304 stainless steel and built in the USA for a lifetime of durability.
Key Features
- 3 inch mandrel bent T304 stainless steel tubing throughout the B917-C917 system
- True Helmholtz Technology chambers eliminate cabin drone without sacrificing sound
- Quad exit polished stainless tips finish off the B917-C917 with a clean, aggressive look
- Mounts directly to OEM catalytic converters and downpipes, no tune required
- Uses OEM hangers and fits the factory rear valance with no cutting or welding
- Mill finish tubing and center muffler with a brushed rear muffler for a factory grade look
- Backed by the Thermal R&D Lifetime Manufacturer Warranty
Fitment Table
| Year Range | Make | Model | Trim |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-2025 | Ford | Explorer | ST |
Specifications
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Part Number | B917-C917 |
| Material | T304 Stainless Steel |
| Pipe Diameter | 3 inch mandrel bent |
| Tip Finish | Polished, quad exit |
| Installation | No cutting or welding required |
| Warranty | Lifetime Manufacturer Warranty |
| Country of Manufacture | United States |
What's Included
- Complete B917-C917 catback exhaust system with mid pipes
- Polished quad exit exhaust tips
- OEM style hangers and mounting hardware
- Installation instructions
About Thermal R&D
Thermal R&D designs and manufactures performance exhaust systems in the United States using premium T304 stainless steel. The brand is known for its proprietary Helmholtz chamber technology, which allows drivers to enjoy a deeper, more aggressive exhaust tone without the drone that typically comes with aftermarket systems. Every Thermal R&D exhaust is backed by a lifetime manufacturer warranty.
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FAQ
What is the B917-C917?The B917-C917 is a 3 inch catback exhaust system from Thermal R&D built for the 2020-2025 Ford Explorer ST, featuring mandrel bent T304 stainless tubing and polished quad exit tips.
Will the B917-C917 trigger a check engine light?No, the B917-C917 mounts behind the factory catalytic converters and does not affect emissions equipment, so no codes or check engine lights should be triggered.
Does installing the B917-C917 require any cutting or welding?No, the B917-C917 is a direct bolt on system that uses the OEM hangers and mounting points, so no cutting or welding is necessary.
Is the B917-C917 loud at idle?The B917-C917 uses Helmholtz chamber technology to keep idle and cruising noise moderate while still delivering an aggressive tone under acceleration.
Can I install the B917-C917 myself in my garage?Yes, most owners complete the B917-C917 install in a few hours with basic hand tools and a vehicle lift or jack stands.
Does the B917-C917 fit Explorer models with the base engine?The B917-C917 is designed specifically for the Explorer ST with the 3.0L twin turbo engine and will not fit other Explorer trims.
What is the difference between the B917-C917 and the coated tip version?The B917-C917 comes with polished stainless tips, while the coated tip version of the same system uses a black ceramic finish. Both use the same T304 stainless piping.
Does the B917-C917 come with a warranty?Yes, the B917-C917 is backed by the Thermal R&D Lifetime Manufacturer Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
Install Instructions
- Raise the vehicle safely and allow the factory exhaust to cool completely before beginning work on the B917-C917 installation.
- Remove the factory catback exhaust starting at the rearmost hangers and working forward to the OEM downpipe connection.
- Transfer the OEM rubber hangers to the new B917-C917 mid pipe and muffler assembly.
- Position the B917-C917 mid pipe section and connect it to the factory downpipes using the provided clamps.
- Install the muffler and tailpipe sections of the B917-C917, aligning the polished tips evenly with the rear valance.
- Tighten all clamps and verify there is adequate clearance from the heat shields, fuel lines, and body panels.
- Start the vehicle and inspect all B917-C917 connections for exhaust leaks before lowering it back to the ground.
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