I have just found what I think is a cheap way to imprive the road noise that large vans like the Towance can suffer from. I was talking to my local car stereo reapair shop on another matter, when I asked what price he could get me some "Dynamat" sound proofing, I was shocked to hear him say that a 4'x4' square of this is about £20, & looking at the size of the vehicle it would cost about £300. He sugessted that there is a cheaper version at £12 for 4'x4' but I would still be looking at over £150 he then went on to mention that it was a bitumen based stuff with a silver backing which brought to my mind the fact that stick on "Flashing" as used in roofing is made of simailar type of material. I bought a 10mtr roll for £15 & did the whole vehicle doors front wings & all the interior panels incl. the rear speaker mountings in the rear quarter pilars. The road noise is dramaticly reduced & the sound from the speakers has improved no end with much more bass & clarity. PS best results are acheived by using a wallpaper seam roller & a hair dryer to warm the bitumen slighty

- (#10318) Arshad Mahmood, 23 Aug 03 16:21

Nice one Arshad, It must have taken you ages to stick all that lot on. Does the flashing stick itself or do you need some sort of contact adhesive?

One other thing, I find it very difficult to hear my children talking when they sit in the back row of seats. Have you noticed any difference/improvement with holding conversations in your vehicle?

- (#10319) Stewart, 23 Aug 03 17:25

Some people who self build motorhomes/campers do the same thing - if a step further is required common camping mats (closed cell foam so won't soak up moisture) and bubble wrap can be stuck behind panels etc. to help insulate against cold in winter and heat in summer.
You've inspired me to check out the diy shop - but can I ask, if you looked at a few brands and if so which did you consider to be most suitable?

- (#10320) chris turner, 23 Aug 03 18:24

I bought a cheap end of industrial carpet (solid rubber backing), cut panels to fit, and glued them down with bitumastic roof coating. For sound deadening, it's mass you're looking for, although a non- reflective surface will help also. Dynamat is too dear for what it is.

- (#10321) david miller, 24 Aug 03 2:27