Installing SPD downpipes on 2020 Explorer ST

In this video we get downpipes installed on our explorer. This is more in depth of removing downpipe and install on the passenger side as it is the most challenging to get out.
I hope this video helps you guys.
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[@chiefordnance]

Good job I am not jealous 😮

[@gabrielramos3802]

What were the extensions that you used? I’m struggling to find the correct ones that will help me gets my Cats out. If you can would you mind giving me the exact names for them here please.

[@SouthdownGarage]

You need a 17mm 12 point deap socket a swivel, a long ratchet for leverage and I used 2 12" extensions. I would recommend all 3/8's drive crome - no impact sockets. On the passenger side right bolt you have to pull the swivel back to turn everytime the swivel binds up! I would do that one after the left nut is off, but when you install the dowpipes tighten the right one first. You can see the right nut if you remove the lower cover in the wheel well where the O2 sensor plug is, or swing it out of the way. That's the only way you can see if your on the right nut on the passenger side downpipe

[@Dustin1788]

Did you have to do a tune once you replaced the down pipes? (Before I’ve watched the whole video😂) I have the 3” Thermal exhaust but I want to do some downpipes

[@SouthdownGarage]

You don't have to tune for it, but you'll get more potential if you get a tune or revise your current one, once you install the downpipes.

[@jamesriley918]

Kurt - My name is Jim. I have a 23 Platinum Explorer on order from a dealer here in Michigan. I want to replace the stock catalysts-down pipes when I get the vehicle. Questions - What is the wrap that you installed on your down pipes as heat protection ? Are there gaskets between the outlet of the Turbos and the inlet of the down pipes ?

[@SouthdownGarage]

It's just exhaust heat wrap that is installed on the headers. Yes there are gaskets between the turbo and the downpipes. I ordered them, but the gaskets are metal, and I did not replace mine.

[@dragon0361]

@@SouthdownGarageis the wrap needed or optional?

[@bavarianblessed]

@@dragon0361 Optional but a good idea. Whoosh actually sells a shielded downpipe for the ST

[@nelsonsantos757]

Do you get any check engine codes when you installed those?

[@SouthdownGarage]

Nope

[@mortysrick2111]

Kurt, thanks for the video. Have you experienced the nuts on the down pipe not wanting to budge? I’m using the biggest breaker bar and they won’t move at all😭 car only has 2k miles 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@SouthdownGarage]

Are you talking about the nut on the passenger side downpipe right side closest to the frame?

[@mortysrick2111]

@@SouthdownGarage I ended up getting them free, with a lot of penetrating oil and patience. 😂

[@SouthdownGarage]

@@mortysrick2111 yeah, the one on the right is a nightmare. But at least you only have to do it once 🤣

[@dragon0361]

Hey why did you switch your downpipes? Do the aftermarket ones go bad often? I just ordered the cheaper cvf ones so im a little concerned

[@SouthdownGarage]

I haven't switched to the test downpipes yet. Still running the catted ones. I sell CV Fab downpipes, I stand by their quality. You'll be happy with them.

[@dragon0361]

@@SouthdownGarage ahhh thank you, thats def reassuring!!! Cant wait to install them myself. Thats why I was watching this video. But I have no lift just jacks so pray for me lol

[@dragon0361]

@@SouthdownGarage also you think those flexible extensions would be any help here for the downpipe bolts?

[@DadBodSnax]

I didn’t notice much of a difference in sound from the video in the before and after. Is that accurate in real life?

[@SouthdownGarage]

Yes the do sound completely different in person. The spd downpipes don't have as deep of sound.

[@sscamaro3809]

did you have to lower the subframe

[@SouthdownGarage]

I did the first time because it's really hard to find the passenger side downpipe nut, but you don't need to. If you put a 17mm deal socket with a swivel on the nut closest to the frame you'll be able to get it off without lowering the transmission cross member or subframe. I'm not going to lie, it may seem impossible at first, but if you unplug the lower o2 sensor there is a plastic piece cover were the plug is mounted to the body, you can look up and see the nut from there. Hope this helps.

[@jonathannoble8190]

I'm guessing my RWD explorer ST would be a lot easier seeing as there is no driveshaft in the way?

[@SouthdownGarage]

I would imagine you'de be correct. Kinda jealous on that point!

[@johnalcala]

It's truly a damn shame these manufacturers can't make a car or truck easy to work on. It's a living nightmare even if you're a factory certified mechanic with every tool in the book

[@all4grabs2004]

Where you located? I'd pay you to do mine on my Aviator!.. ha

[@SouthdownGarage]

I'm in BC, Canada

[@HahaHaha-gq8ft]

How challenging is this game of tetris? Thinking of attempting the removal myself to save money . I got qouted 8 hours a cat . Can i drove there without the cats on if its a one-time thing ?

[@SouthdownGarage]

Should only take 4 hours total for both cats from a shop thats done it regularly. If you were near BC Canada i'de do it for you. It's not fun taking the passenger side downpipes off. So you'll have to be really patient. Drivers side is way easier.

[@cocain03]

My 2020 ST blew at 23,600 miles.

[@SouthdownGarage]

Your engine blew?

[@Giohgk]

What happen???

[@ArcMastersLLC]

????

[@Teotwobluntz]

Lmao

[@blakegarner3719]

Will these downpipes pass smog?

[@SouthdownGarage]

They should, they are high flow cats. But always good to check with the manufacturer.

[@blakegarner3719]

@@SouthdownGarage thanks for the reply!!!!

[@SouthdownGarage]

@@blakegarner3719 no problem!