2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Firewall insulation

[GAmes]

With my engine out now is the time to remove the shredded and ugly insulation. Is it there primarily for noise or heat? There are several threads about it, but most concern mouse nests and ways to combat them. Has anyone just removed it and called it a day, or is there something that can be installed in it's place? The down pipe comes really close to it, so definitely need something fireproof.

 

[HBarlow]

How about the modern aluminum foil and bubble wrap product used in vintage car upgrades? I think it is called "dynamat" or something similar. Reportedly very efficient at blocking heat and sound.

I have it installed from firewall to trunk under the carpet of my '56 Chevy sedan.

 

[GAmes]

I looked at the dynamat but it doesn't appear to be made for external applications, and I'm not sure it will withstand the heat. I have found a product from thermo tec that is supposed to be good to 2000 degrees. It looks promising, but I'm wondering if I can just do away with insulation completely.

 

[HBarlow]

I would guess you'll find out very quickly, after the engine and transmission are all in place and blocking access, that Dodge had a very good reason for the old factory insulation pad(s). I think you'll have increased engine noise transmission and greater heat transfer into the cab. You may regret it and wish you had insulated it while you had the chance.

 

[SHobbs]

Try this



http://www.secondskinaudio.com/viewproduct.php?id_product=355

 

[CBlack]

I'd go with Second Skin as well. A lot of pros use it for that type of installation.

 

[GAmes]

I'm still not sure if the insulation is for noise or hear. The second skin is good to 800 degrees, the Thermo Tec is 2000, but doesn't appear to have as much noise reduction. If I am seeing a constant 1100 degrees on my gauge isn't the downpipe about 800?

 

[HBarlow]

I would assume it is to isolate the cabin from heat and sound.

 

[DSeamans]

Both

The factory stuff is for both sound and heat. You know how loud these cummins are, without it, it will be like inside a drum. It also stays very hot under the hood. If you want a very clean look, build a heatshield for the downpipe and use the secondskin or dynamat under the carpet inside.

 

[Bob4x4]

Wrapping the down pipe will preserve a lower heat/higher noise reducing product.

 

[JPulliam]

I pulled all of mine off because it was looking ratty like yours. I can say that my truck is louder than most I ride in, and I would like to replace it with something in the future.

 

[GAmes]

I would guess you'll find out very quickly, after the engine and transmission are all in place and blocking access, that Dodge had a very good reason for the old factory insulation pad(s). I think you'll have increased engine noise transmission and greater heat transfer into the cab. You may regret it and wish you had insulated it while you had the chance.

I'm sure you are right Harvey. I think I'll go with a strip of the high temp stuff above the downpipe, and second skin the rest. But first I'm going to see if the preformed OEM blankets are still available. I do like the clean look though.

 

[GAmes]

I pulled all of mine off because it was looking ratty like yours. I can say that my truck is louder than most I ride in, and I would like to replace it with something in the future.

Thanks, that was what I was asking, and what I feared.

 

[GAmes]

In case anyone wants to try this at home. I installed a layer of Second Skin Damplifier Pro for noise Damplifier Pro - Automotive Sound Deadener CLD Vibration damping mat - See what all the fuss is about then a layer of Second Skin thermo block over it with a strip of Thermo Tec Thermo-Tec : Adhesive Backed Heat Barrier above the exhaust. Not the easiest job. Metal shears are needed for all three items, scissors won't cut them.

 

[DWeaver]

I was just wondering if it worked well?

 

[Alan Reagan]

Another deadener, reflector is "Roadkill". Kills the noise.

 

[GAmes]

I was just wondering if it worked well?

No complaints. There is a definite reduction of noise in the cab, according to my wife. I might extend the reflective heat barrior farther back when I pull the engine the next time. All in all, worth the time and expense. After 50k miles it is still looking good.

 

[DShore]

Floor tunnel heat shield withstands 1750 degrees F. direct continuous heat, stops 50% road noise, works in harsh environment, self-adhesive backing. I purchased 48”x42” sheets (bought 2) I think I did mine with the engine in place and sealed pieces together with aluminum tape from Lowe’s. Has been installed 2 years in 110-120 degrees Arizona Heat. No problems. Made a big improvement in sound and heat. See picture



View attachment 78216

 

[DWeaver]

No complaints. There is a definite reduction of noise in the cab, according to my wife. I might extend the reflective heat barrior farther back when I pull the engine the next time. All in all, worth the time and expense. After 50k miles it is still looking good.

Thank you. Really cleans up the firewall.