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The Finishing Touch Your Explorer ST Exhaust Deserves
A great sounding exhaust still needs the right look at the rear valance. The C917 TIP set from Thermal R&D swaps in a pair of polished stainless tips designed specifically for the 3 inch Explorer ST catback system, giving your ST a cleaner, more finished appearance without touching a single weld.
Key Features
- Polished T304 stainless steel construction on every C917 TIP set
- Engineered specifically for the Thermal R&D 3 inch Explorer ST catback system
- Slip on fitment over factory approved outlet pipes
- Sold as a matched pair for a symmetrical dual exit look
- Corrosion resistant finish holds up to heat cycling
- Simple clamp on installation, no welding required
- Manufactured in the USA and backed by a lifetime warranty
This Part Fits
| Year Range | Make | Model |
|---|---|---|
| 2020-2026 | Ford | Explorer ST |
Specifications
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| MPN | C917 TIP |
| UPC | Not published by manufacturer |
| Material | T304 stainless steel |
| Finish | Polished |
| Quantity | Set of 2 |
| Compatible System | Thermal R&D 3 inch Explorer ST catback |
| Warranty | Lifetime manufacturer warranty |
| Country of Origin | USA |
What's Included
- Two polished stainless C917 TIP exhaust tips
- Mounting clamps
- Installation instructions
About Thermal R&D
Thermal Research and Development started in 1983 in a small muffler shop in Canoga Park, California. Decades later the team still hand builds every exhaust component in the USA, combining old school craftsmanship with modern acoustic tuning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the C917 TIP?The C917 TIP is a matched pair of polished T304 stainless steel exhaust tips built by Thermal R&D specifically for their 3 inch Explorer ST catback exhaust system.
Will these tips fit my factory Explorer ST exhaust?No. These tips are designed to mount to the outlet pipes of the Thermal R&D 3 inch catback system, not the factory exhaust.
Can I buy just one tip instead of the pair?No, these are sold only as a matched set of two so both sides look identical.
Do I need to remove my exhaust to install these?No. The tips slip over the existing Thermal R&D outlet pipes and are secured with clamps, so there is no need to remove the full system.
Will the polished finish discolor from heat?Some light heat tint near the very tip opening is normal on polished stainless over time. It can typically be polished back out with a stainless cleaner.
How long does installation take?Swapping tips is a quick job, usually 15 to 20 minutes with basic hand tools.
Are these tips covered under warranty?Yes, they are backed by the same lifetime manufacturer warranty Thermal R&D applies to their exhaust components.
Can I upgrade to these tips later if I already bought the black coated version?Yes, since they clamp on separately from the catback system, you can swap finishes at any time.
Install Instructions
- Loosen the factory tip clamps on your installed Thermal R&D catback system.
- Remove the existing tips from the outlet pipes.
- Slide the new polished C917 TIP set onto the outlet pipes.
- Adjust each tip evenly within the rear valance opening.
- Tighten the clamps fully once alignment is confirmed on both sides.
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Thermal R&D exhaust systems are premium stainless steel performance exhaust upgrades for Ford, Honda, Acura, RAM, Jeep, Chevrolet, Subaru, Toyota, Scion, and Kia performance applications. Shop Thermal R&D cat-back exhaust systems, front-pipe-back exhausts, mid-pipe-back exhausts, downpipe-back exhausts, mufflers, exhaust tips, polished tips, coated tips, carbon fiber tips, and bolt-on exhaust upgrades at Black Ops Auto Works. Thermal R&D is a strong choice for drivers who want a deeper exhaust tone, improved exhaust flow, reduced cabin drone, quality construction, and vehicle-specific fitment. This collection includes Thermal R&D exhaust systems for Ford F-150, Ford Bronco, Ford Mustang GT, Ford Mustang EcoBoost, Ford Maverick EcoBoost, Ford Explorer ST, Ford Edge ST, RAM 1500 HEMI, Honda Civic Si, Honda Civic Type R, Honda Accord Sport, Acura Integra, Jeep Wrangler JK, Chevrolet Camaro, Kia Stinger GT, Subaru BRZ, Toyota 86, and Scion FR-S. Shop Thermal R&D Exha...
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