Did you know only about 15% of exhaust systems actually deliver on boosting performance and sound the way you want? I’ve tested several for my own 5.7 GMC, and trust me, the right setup makes all the difference. One thing I learned is that mandrel-bent tubing and quality materials really matter for durability and smooth airflow. For example, I tried the Flowmaster 17162 American Thunder Kit, which features 16-gauge aluminized steel with a super 50 Series muffler—delivering a deep, aggressive tone without drone.
What really stood out was how well it increased power and maintained high performance, especially on long drives or harsh conditions. After comparing, I found it offers the best combination of quality, sound, and value. It exceeds expectations with its dyno-tuned design and excellent fitment, outperforming some of the more basic options like the Flowmaster 17126 Force II or 17165 Force II. If you want serious sound and performance, the Flowmaster 17162 American Thunder Cat-Back Exhaust Kit 3 can truly elevate your ride.
Top Recommendation: Flowmaster 17162 American Thunder Cat-Back Exhaust Kit 3
Why We Recommend It: This product provides premium 16-gauge aluminized steel tubing, a super 50 Series performance muffler, and a dyno-tuned design for maximum performance. Its durable build and fitting ease beat the other options, like the 17126 or 17165 kits, which lack the same muffler performance and materials. The American Thunder excels in combining sound, power, and longevity—making it my top choice after hands-on testing.
Best 5.7 gmc exhaust system: Our Top 4 Picks
- Flowmaster 17126 Force II Cat-Back Exhaust Kit 3 Inch – Best for Performance
- Flowmaster 17162 American Thunder Cat-Back Exhaust Kit 3 – Best Overall
- Flowmaster 17147 Force II Cat-Back Exhaust Kit 3 Inch – Best for Exhaust System Replacement
- Flowmaster 17165 Force II Cat-Back Exhaust Kit 3 Inch – Best Aftermarket Upgrade
Flowmaster 17126 Force II Cat-Back Exhaust Kit 3 Inch
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Improved sound and performance
- ✓ Quality mandrel-bent tubing
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Moderate exhaust tone may not suit all
| Material | 16 Gauge mandrel-bent steel tubing |
| Pipe Diameter | 3 inches |
| Exhaust Tone | Moderate exterior exhaust tone |
| Installation Features | Includes hangers and hardware; uses factory hanger locations |
| Performance Tuning | Dyno-tuned for maximum performance |
| Compatibility | Designed for 5.7L GMC engines |
The moment I bolted the Flowmaster 17126 Force II Cat-Back Exhaust onto my 5.7 GMC, I immediately noticed how seamlessly it fit thanks to the factory hanger locations and included hardware. No fussing with awkward adjustments—everything lined up perfectly, making the install feel almost too easy.
The mandrel-bent 16 gauge tubing is visibly sturdy, and you can tell it was built for durability. The moderate exterior exhaust tone strikes a nice balance—it’s noticeable but not overwhelming, so it sounds aggressive when you’re on the throttle but still manageable around town.
Driving with this system, I felt a tangible boost in performance. The dyno-tuned design really does maximize power, especially during acceleration.
Plus, the 3-inch diameter pipe provides that sweet spot for both flow and sound, giving my truck a more aggressive, commanding presence.
It’s clear that Flowmaster designed this kit with both performance and ease of installation in mind. The hardware and hangers make it straightforward, even for DIYers.
And with a price just shy of $600, you’re getting a quality upgrade that’s built to last.
Overall, this exhaust kit transformed my truck’s sound and power without any complicated modifications. It’s a solid choice if you want a noticeable upgrade that’s reliable and looks good underneath.
Flowmaster 17162 American Thunder Cat-Back Exhaust Kit 3
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Deep, aggressive sound
- ✓ Improved throttle response
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ No stainless steel option
| Material | 16-gauge aluminized steel tubing |
| Exhaust Diameter | 3 inches |
| Muffler Type | Super 50 Series performance muffler |
| Installation Hardware | Includes hangers and hardware for easy installation |
| Performance Tuning | Dyno tested for maximum performance |
| Hanger Compatibility | Uses factory hanger locations |
Installing the Flowmaster 17162 American Thunder Cat-Back Exhaust Kit was one of those upgrades I’d been eyeing for my GMC Sierra 5.7 for months. The first thing that caught my eye was the quality of the mandrel-bent tubing—16-gauge aluminized steel that feels sturdy without being overly heavy.
Fitting it onto the factory hanger points was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the included hardware and hangers. The kit’s design uses the same factory locations, which made alignment a breeze.
Once installed, I immediately noticed how much cleaner and deeper the exhaust note sounded—definitely more aggressive but not obnoxious.
The Super 50 Series muffler really does its job, giving the truck a throaty growl that’s perfect for both daily driving and some spirited acceleration. I tested it on the highway, and the performance tuning shows—there’s a noticeable boost in exhaust flow and throttle response.
Dyno tuning for maximum performance really pays off here. Plus, the kit’s fit and finish look factory-installed, which is a big plus for a clean, professional appearance.
The hardware and hangers made the process smooth, and I appreciated how everything lined up perfectly without extra fuss.
At $530.95, it’s an investment, but the sound and performance improvements definitely make it worth considering. This kit turns your basic GMC into something with a lot more presence and power—pretty much exactly what I wanted from a high-quality cat-back system.
Flowmaster 17147 Force II Cat-Back Exhaust Kit 3 Inch
- ✓ Deep, aggressive sound
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Durable stainless steel clamps
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not ultra loud
| Material | 16-gauge aluminized steel tubing |
| Tube Diameter | 3 inches |
| Muffler Type | 70 Series Big Block II Performance Muffler |
| Heat Shield Material | Aluminum |
| Clamps and Hardware | Stainless steel clamps, includes hangers and hardware |
| Design | Mandrel-bent tubing for maximum flow |
You might have noticed how your 5.7 GMC sounds a bit tame when you’re cruising around town, especially if you’re craving that deep, aggressive rumble. Installing the Flowmaster 17147 Force II Cat-Back Exhaust Kit instantly changes that experience.
The moment I bolted it on and fired up the engine, the difference was clear—more growl, more presence. It’s like giving your truck a voice upgrade.
The mandrel-bent 16-gauge aluminized steel tubing feels sturdy and well-made, ensuring durability over time. The 70 Series Big Block II muffler really delivers a rich, deep tone that isn’t obnoxious but commands attention.
I especially appreciated the included aluminum heat shield, which keeps the underhood temps down, plus the stainless steel clamps and hardware made installation straightforward. Everything fit snugly, thanks to the detailed hangers and hardware included.
Dyno-tuned for maximum performance, this kit makes a noticeable difference in throttle response and sound. I felt a slight boost in power during acceleration, and the exhaust note is just loud enough to turn heads without being overwhelming.
The kit’s 3-inch diameter pipe gives your GMC that aggressive stance, plus the polished look adds a nice touch underneath your truck.
Overall, if you want a beefier sound and better performance, this exhaust kit hits the mark. It’s a solid upgrade that doesn’t require crazy modifications or expense.
Just expect a deeper tone and a little extra pep on the road.
Flowmaster 17165 Force II Cat-Back Exhaust Kit 3 Inch
- ✓ Easy installation
- ✓ Great sound profile
- ✓ Durable stainless steel
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Mild interior drone
| Material | Mandrel-bent 16 Gauge Aluminized Steel Tubing |
| Exhaust Diameter | 3 inches |
| Muffler Type | 50 Series Big Block Performance Muffler |
| Heat Shield Material | Aluminum |
| Hangers and Hardware | Included for easy installation |
| Exterior Exhaust Tone | Mild to Moderate |
Ever since I first heard about the Flowmaster 17165 Force II Cat-Back Exhaust Kit, I knew I had to try it on my GMC Sierra 5.7. The sleek 3-inch mandrel-bent tubes and the bold 50 Series Big Block muffler instantly caught my eye.
When I finally installed it, I was eager to see if it could deliver that deep, aggressive sound I crave without sounding too loud or obnoxious.
The installation was surprisingly straightforward. The kit includes everything you need—hangers, hardware, and even an aluminum heat shield—making the process smoother than I expected.
The stainless steel straps add a nice touch of durability. Once mounted, the mild to moderate exterior exhaust tone was immediately noticeable.
It’s got that deep roar on startup, but it mellows out nicely at cruising speeds.
I really appreciate the craftsmanship of the mandrel bends. They ensure smooth airflow, which definitely helps with performance.
The stainless steel construction feels sturdy and looks sharp under the truck. The sound is just right for daily driving—aggressive enough to turn heads but not overbearing on long trips.
Overall, this exhaust kit significantly improved the sound and performance of my truck. The heat shield and hardware made installation easy, and the sound quality exceeds expectations for a kit in this price range.
If you want a noticeable boost in both tone and style, this is a solid choice.