RAM 1500 Exhaust Comparison: Thermal R&D 3-Inch vs. Savage Edition Sound Test

At Thermal R&D we are always striving to expand our catalog and develop superior products for exhaust enthusiasts. And our recently released cat back exhaust system for 2019-2024 Dodge Ram trucks is something that needs to be heard to be appreciated.

Tyler Clark, the YouTuber behind the LessEcoMoreBoost channel, decided to install our new 3” Cat-Back Exhaust System on his master technician’s bone stock 2021 Dodge RAM 5.7-liter V8. The results were impressive, but watch and hear it for yourself:

Tips and tools for a smooth R&D exhaust install:

• Use a car lift or jack stands
• Having two people to do the job helps
• Lubricate the nuts and hangers beforehand
• You will need a 10mm, 13mm, 15mm and 16mm socket and wrench
• Use a 10mm bolt and nut to replace any seized or broken OEM nuts

This RAM's stock exhaust system just doesn’t do its 5.7-liter Hemi V8 any justice. So, they upgraded it to the Thermal R&D 3” Cat Back Exhaust System to see just how much of a difference it makes. Tyler noted how good the Thermal R&D exhaust tips looked compared to the already sporty factory tips, he even wanted to fit a set to his Ford Explorer.

"These [tips] crank it up another notch. These are fantastic." - Tyler Clark

Step one was to lubricate all the bolts and hangers that will be removed, this helps get the factory exhaust out a lot easier. For this install, Tyler recommended having a 13, 15 and 16mm socket to hand, as well as a 10mm wrench.

Brandon noted that over time the bolts holding the exhaust to the muffler will seize and potentially break. If you encounter this issue, you'll need to use replacement 10mm bolts with a washer and a lock nut to tighten the new unit in. Be careful with the gaskets as you will need to reuse them.

Thermal R&D exhausts come with all the necessary hardware for a hassle-free installation. The systems are easy bolt-on installations, and they use OEM hangers for that factory finish. Tyler mentions that it’s useful to have two people to remove the OEM rear section, as it needs to be pulled past the rear axle. There is also a silver or black coated exhaust tip option for this system, so make sure to select the one you prefer when ordering your exhaust.

The Sound Test

To cater to the differing needs and sound note desires of exhaust enthusiasts, we built this RAM exhaust system in  two different muffler options: our standard style and a Savage Edition. Tyler and Brandon tried out both to see how they compared.

To thoroughly test each exhaust system, Tyler did a rev test, and a few pulls with each setup. They also compared each muffler to the stock system. The stock system was - spoiler alert - less than impressive. Designed to appeal to a broad audience, it was overly quiet and didn't do the V8 engine any favors.

"[The stock system] sounded like a vacuum cleaner powered by a V8." - Tyler Clark

Next was the Thermal R&D standard 3” Catback system. Immediately the V8’s roar was easier to hear, and it sounded deep and strong under load, too. No drone, just the smooth sound of a powerful V8, the way it should have been from the factory.

The Savage Edition 3” Catback exhaust was installed next. It makes an even deeper, more muscular tone with a shorter muffler design. Tyler loved the Savage Edition exhaust. It has a rich sound right from idle and sounds far more aggressive when you floor it. Yet, the best part is that there is no noise or unwanted drone inside the cab.

"This [Savage Edition] is my favorite, even though it’s substantially louder, there is zero loudness in the cabin. No drone." - Tyler Clark

If you want to unleash the full potential of your V8, the Savage Edition is the perfect choice.

Choose The Thermal R&D Exhaust That Suits You Best

If you own a 2019-2024 Dodge RAM 1500, then the Thermal R&D 3” Catback Exhaust system is the perfect aftermarket accessory to unleash the sound and power of your ride.

Choose the standard catback upgrade for a smooth yet impressive sound, or the aggressive Savage Edition catback system which delivers an even more powerful exhaust note. Whichever one you pick, you get the sound without the drone.

We have decades of experience designing and developing exhaust systems that are durable, powerful, and provide a serious sound upgrade. Our True Helmholtz Technology ensures that you get all of the sound and none of the drone.

• Lifetime Warranty offers peace of mind
• Manufactured in the USA with high-quality materials
• True Helmholtz Technology for Drone Free Exhaust Sound

Unleash the latent sound and performance of your Dodge RAM 1500 with our latest exhaust system. Contact us today if you have questions about fitment, and give your truck the perfect upgrade today!