How Do I Start a Van Conversion?

Choosing the Right Van:

One of the most important steps when starting your Van Conversion Range is selecting the appropriate base vehicle. There are several factors to consider when choosing a van:

Van Model: Popular options for conversions include the Ford Transit, Dodge ProMaster, Renault Trafic, and Mercedes Sprinter. Larger vans like the Transit and Sprinter provide more interior space to work with, while smaller vans have better fuel efficiency and maneuverability.

Length: Consider how many people you need to accommodate and what size of space is required. Longer vans obviously provide more room but may be less parking-friendly.

Roof Height: Vans with high, lift-up roofs are ideal as they allow for standing headroom. However, high-top vans can be more expensive and have higher centers of gravity.

Ground Clearance: If you plan to do any hardcore adventuring off major roads, you'll want at least 7-8 inches of clearance. Clearance is especially important if adding a roof-raising.

Fuel Economy: Diesel vans tend to get better mileage than gas versions, though diesel comes at a higher initial cost. Expect around 20-25 mpg on average.

Mileage: For conversion, you don't need a brand-new van. A used van with under 150,000 miles is generally considered a safe purchase if properly maintained.

When inspecting potentially used vans, pay close attention to rust, leaks, engine wear, transmission operation, and vehicle history records. A trained mechanic can also inspect before purchase. Overall condition is highly important for conversion planning.

Another key consideration is cargo capacity. Vans have weight limits so it's important to estimate the fully built-out weight of your conversion design. Don't go too close to maximum capacity figures or it could impact driving performance.

Carefully consider how the van's original seating configuration might impact your conversion plans. For example, if retaining rear seats you'll have less width for additional storage or living space. Research common floor plans for your specific Sound Deadening Van model online to aid the decision.

Accessing the rear of the van also matters. Vehicles with larger rear cargo doors make renovations and furnishings installations much easier down the line. Sliding doors are quite convenient compared to standard swinging doors.

It's worthwhile doing additional research into each van model's known issues, maintenance costs, reliability ratings, and resale values. Refer to sources like Consumer Reports for reliability data, and check van-specific forums online. Understanding common problems can prepare you for potential repairs down the road.

Once you've identified a few van models that suit your configuration needs, it's time to start shopping. In addition to private sellers, explore van conversion upfitters, commercial upfit distributors, and van rental companies. These commercial sources often offer pre-inspected inventory with service records.

Removing Unneeded Interior Components:

Once you've chosen your donor van, it's time to start stripping it down in preparation for your new conversion layout. The goal is to remove anything not needed so you have a clean slate to work with.

Start by taking out all removable vehicle seats. This likely includes front captain's chairs as well as any rear seating. The seats often bolt in place, so remove nuts and bolts while keeping track of fastener types and locations.

Next, remove interior trim pieces like door panels, overhead consoles, and floor coverings. These are usually held on with clips or screws underneath molding. Gently pry off with plastic trim tools to avoid damage.

Use a utility knife to slit fabric or vinyl material and peel it away from surfaces. Be careful not to cut into underlying panels or insulation. Sand or file any residual adhesive left behind.

With seating and trims gone, focus on interior components like center consoles, cup holders, and multimedia screens. These may involve more disassembly work like removal of wiring harnesses. Document where everything disconnects.

Underneath dashboards and door panels, use a vacuum to remove accumulated dirt and debris before removal. This reduces what ends up in your new living space as you renovate.

Finally, knock out sound deadening materials if present which tend to be glued-down foam pads. A heat gun on a low setting can soften adhesive for easier removal without damaging sheet metal.

Once fully stripped, perform any needed metal repairs then clean and prep surfaces with sandpaper or chemical degreasers for your planned insulation or finishing material application. Proper prep work saves headaches down the road.

What Was the Point of Conversion Vans?

The rise of the conversion van craze

In the 1960s and 1970s, the Van Conversion Range rose to incredible popularity in the United States. Young people especially were drawn to their versatility and customization potential. With their bulk cargo space that could be reconfigured, conversion vans offered an all-in-one vehicle suited for road trips, camping, and active lifestyles.

During this era, many American families purchased full-size passenger vans for their practicality. Models like the Dodge Sportsman and Chevrolet Van were frequent targets for creative conversions. Enthusiasts realized they could transform the drab interior spaces into personalized living quarters tailored to their needs and interests. This inspired the rise of a whole industry around professionally modifying vans.

As seen in the table above, conversion vans truly hit their stride in popularity during the 1970s decade of self-expression and exploration. Movies like "Vanishing Point" which came out in 1971 glamorized the roaming adventure lifestyle they enabled.[^1] Magazines routinely profiled innovative builds readers had done to their vehicles. The possibilities seemed endless for redesigning the dormant cargo bays.

By this time, some ambitious builders were experimenting with complex layouts like sleeper bunks, drop-down kitchenettes, and rear lounges. Others focused more on cosmetic changes like colorful murals or shag carpeting. No matter the approach, these visual modifications communicated something about the owner's personality and interests. It was the ultimate form of expressive transportation.

The do-it-yourself movement played a key role in the popularity of conversion vans. Owners saw them as a blank canvas and valued putting their own creative stamp on the interior design. Many enthusiasts eagerly dove into ambitious van builds as DIY projects.

Common novice conversions focused on basics like adding carpet, captain chairs, or a dinette booth. But more experienced owners eagerly took on complex layouts and custom cabinetry. Popular regional Sound Deadening Van life magazines routinely published step-by-step building guides. These inspired others and spread innovative ideas like removable room dividers or fold-out storage solutions.

Community support was strong, with experienced builders happily advising newcomers. Local lumber yards, upholsterers, and hardware stores often hosted weekend workshops on topics like electrical wiring or wall paneling techniques. Many areas even had conversion van clubs where members socialized and helped each other with projects.

While some owners hired professional installers, most took pride in self-performing conversions. Neighbors would often see vans parked for weeks outside homes as builds progressed. Evenings and weekends were spent meticulously crafting each system and detail. Many formed strong bonds over shared triumphs and troubleshooting sessions.

To this day, some of the most elaborate vintage conversions still turn heads at van shows. Their builders meticulously selected and hand-fabricated every material. The results blur the line between functionality and fine art. These pinnacle builds serve as a reminder of the dedication and artistry that drove the conversation van DIY culture in its heyday.

Despite their overwhelming popularity in the 1970s, conversion van sales began to fall off in the 1980s. Skyrocketing gas prices during that economic recession made their large size and weight increasingly impractical. As family vehicles, minivans also proved more versatile with easily removable seats.

Another factor was the declining counterculture movement as new musical tastes emerged. Younger generations no longer associated conversion vans with liberating travel or antipathy to mainstream culture. Automakers adapted by launching compact camper vans, but these failed to achieve the same mass fervor.

While new conversions slowed, devoted owners refused to quit the hobby. Many turned their vans into weekend project vehicles or inherited full-timers from their parents. Regional gatherings like the “Vans by the Ocean” festival in Southern California drew thousands annually through the 90s. Custom shops still thrived fulfilling specialized restoration and renovation jobs.

In recent years, conversion van enthusiasm has seen a nostalgia-fueled rebound. Vintage models in good shape have climbed greatly in collector value. Websites like ModVan.com provide online communities, events listings, and vendor marketplaces. Young fans rediscover the iconic vehicles through parents or pop culture references. Some envision them as mobile tiny homes or small businesses like food trucks.

Where is the Best Place to Sound Deaden a Car?

Reasons to Sound Deaden a Car

There are several key reasons why car owners look to sound deaden their vehicle. One of the main purposes is to reduce unwanted road and engine noises from entering the passenger cabin. No one wants to feel every pebble and crack on the road surface while driving.

Sound Deadening helps create a more relaxing environment during long car rides. It also improves the quality of audio and allows you to better hear your music, podcasts, or phone calls over background noises. Many high-end or luxury vehicles come sound deadened from the factory for this reason. Overall, applying sound deadening material can greatly boost a car's quietness and comfort.

Some common areas owners notice loud unwanted noises include the dashboard, doors, trunk/cargo area, hood, and wheel wells. These are ideal locations to focus sound deadening efforts. The material works to block vibrations and insulate noise, providing a quieter, more pleasant drive.

Materials Used for Sound Deadening:

There are a few different types of materials commonly used for automotive sound deadening. One of the most popular is mass loaded vinyl (MLV). MLV has a high density plastic film loaded with tiny metal particles. This makes it incredibly effective at stopping vibration transfer. Another good option is Dynamat, which is specifically designed for vehicles. It comes in sheets of butyl rubber and lead compounds.

These materials work by converting vibration energy into heat energy before it can turn into sound waves. The heavier and thicker the product, the better it can absorb noise. Thicknesses of 40 mil or above provide great sound blocking. Some even offer 70+ mil versions for maximum damping. In general, dynamat and other butyl rubber products perform very well. Mass loaded vinyl also works well but may be noisier to apply due to its stiffer surface.

Proper application is important to get the full benefits. The material should be pressed firmly against all contacting surfaces without air pockets for best adhesion. Overlapping seams by at least 1-2 inches helps prevent sound from traveling past the edges.

Dashboard Sound Deadening

The dashboard is one of the primary sources of unwanted noise in a vehicle. It sits right in front of occupants and vibrates significantly from all road inputs. Focus Dodo Sound Deadening efforts on large flat areas as well as around vents, buttons, and accessories.

Some of the key application spots include:

The entire surface under the dash pad Around the A/C controls and vents Wiring ducts and housings Underneath gauge clusters Side panels connecting to doors

Pay close attention to properly squeezing out air bubbles during installation. Dashboards have many contours that can trap sound if not fully adhered to. After application, road noise here should be noticeably dampened. Vibrations passing through to the windshield area will also be reduced.

One way to test results is with deep bass tones playing before and after. Proper sound deadening will stop that “boomy” feel through the whole dash. Occupants will have a much quieter and isolated cabin experience even at highway speeds. Expect noise level reductions of 15-25dB from a quality dashboard installation.

Door Sound Deadening

Vehicle doors are significant contributors to unwanted noise. They have large hollow areas and experience vibrations from both inside and outside sources. To reduce this, focus on:

The inner and outer door panels. Take time to carefully apply MLV or dynamic to fully cover these large flat surfaces. Pay close attention to window tracks, door handles, and lock mechanisms.

Sea the seams where the inner and outer panels meet. Overlap tape or butyl rubber strips can further isolate any sounds traveling between.

The door jamb area between the window frame and the rest of the door. This thin gap conducts noise directly into the cabin.

Reinforce around speakers if installed in the doors. Overlapping the speaker cutout helps block resonances.

How Sound Deadening Materials Effectively Reduce Noise in Your Car

What is Sound Deadening Material?

Sound deadening material is a product that is applied inside automotive body panels to reduce unwanted noise and vibrations. There are a few main types of Sound Deadening Materials used in cars:

Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) - This is one of the most common sound deadeners. MLV has a thick, vinyl skin loaded with lead, tin, or other particulates that make it dense and heavy. This density helps MLV absorb sounds and vibrations in cars.

Dynamat - A popular brand of butyl rubber sound deadener. Dynamat sticks stickily to metal surfaces and also uses its density and composition to dampen sounds.

Closed-Cell Foam - Materials like polyurethane foam are effective because they are closed-cell, meaning their air pockets don't interconnect. This stops vibrations from moving through them.

What is Sound Deadening Material?

As mentioned, the three main types used are MLV, Dynamat, and closed-cell foam. MLV works because the lead particles make it very dense - its weight of approximately 4.5 lbs/sq ft gives it inertia to stop vibrations. Dynamat uses a specially formulated butyl rubber that remains flexible and tacky. This stickiness allows it to bond firmly to all vehicle surfaces while its mass works to damp resonant frequencies.

Closed Cell Foam varies in composition but most use polyurethane, which has an internal cellular structure that inhibits sound transmission. Air pockets are sealed off from each other within the material. When vibrations hit the surface, they cannot pass between the pockets so energy is absorbed instead of transmitted.

Several factors determine which product works best for a specific vehicle or installation area. MLV excels at stopping lower frequencies but is messier to install. Dynamat offers a simplified application with aggressive adhesives but is more expensive. Foams are easy to use but less dense materials.

Most professional installers recommend using multiple types layered together for ultimate noise reduction. For example, applying Dynamat to flat panels followed by MLV or foam on top of irregular surfaces like frames or inner doors. The varying densities provide sound blocking at multiple frequencies for quieter rides.

While MLV, Dynamat, and closed-cell foam are the most common, there are a few other product varieties available:

Liquidsound Deadners - These liquid formulas are sprayed or brushed onto surfaces to dampen vibrations. They use polymers and resin bases that set firm like Dynamat. Liquid sound claims ease of application over solid sheets.

Acoustic Mat - An open-cell air-filled material available in mat or tubular form. It absorbs noise through friction between the foam and air within pockets. Acoustic mats provide some noise blocking without the weight/thickness of other options.

Ceramic Sound Barrier - A relatively new product using micro-encapsulated ceramics within a flexible binder. Ceramics add mass without heavy particulate fillers. Ceramic sound barrier mat claims are vibration dampening, heat resistance, and lifetime effectiveness.

Drop Cloth - Thick tarps or woven drop cloths can block noise transmission when draped over areas. Their mass and flexible structure absorb vibrations and provide an air gap barrier against sheets. Best used underneath other deadening materials.

Installation tips for best results include using multiple product types combined (liquid, sheet, drop cloth layers), full coverage of target areas, smoothing out air bubbles, and applying heat after installation to further bond materials. Proper surface preparation like sanding or cleaning helps adhesion. Reapplication every 5-10 years refreshes the effects as materials can degrade over time.

How Acoustic Foam Works to Treat Noise in Home Studios

Acoustic foam, also known as Soundproof Foam, is a porous material that is extremely effective at absorbing high-frequency sound waves in enclosed spaces like home recording studios. Its open cell structure allows sound to enter but the foam dissipates the sound's energy so it does not reflect into the room.

Acoustic foam is made of polyurethane or polyethylene and comes in various densities. The open cell accounts for 65-95% of the total volume, leaving just enough material to maintain the shape and rigidity of the foam panels. When sound waves reach the foam, they enter these many small open pockets. Rather than reflecting, the sound energy causes the tiny air molecules within the cells to vibrate. This vibration subsequently disperses the sonic energy as heat in a process called acoustic absorption.

As a result, rooms treated with acoustic foam experience less reverberation and standing waves. Standing waves are zones in a room where sound pressure levels oscillate, creating undesirable coloration in the room's natural ambiance. By damping these standing waves, acoustic foam yields a flatter frequency response throughout the space. The human ear then perceives a much clearer, more accurate stereo image and vocal fidelity.

The open cell structure of acoustic foam makes it effective at absorbing high frequencies between 1,000-4,000 Hz. These higher frequencies are some of the most problematic in achieving a balanced sound because they tend to reflect more readily off hard surfaces like drywall. When sound waves in this range interact with the foam, their energy excites the molecules inside the myriad of tiny pockets.

Within a few thousandths of a second, the impacting Sound Pressure Level is diminished, leaving the surrounding space less excited at that same frequency. This absorption effect is most noticeable in the high mids and highs, although dense foam can tackle some lower mids as well depending on the material density. The Acoustic Foam serves to selectively damp specific resonances building up between parallel surfaces like walls and ceilings.

We can think of each open cell as a miniature resonating chamber. As acoustic energy enters, it causes vibrations within the enclosed air mass. However, the cell is too small to allow the initial wavefront to propagate fully into an established standing wave pattern. Instead, the kinetic energy of vibration is dissipated as friction and heat through continuous collisions with the cell walls.

The result is a smoother, flatter Frequency Response in the treated area. Reflections are reduced, allowing direct sounds to reach the ear with less clutter and interference. Recording and mixing can be done with greater accuracy and less post-production tweaking required to balance the lows, mids, and highs. Acoustic foam plays a key role in achieving an optimized listening environment.

Thicker foam panels rated for lower frequencies may have an SAA of 0.8 or higher down to about 400-630 Hz. This provides much more broadband control over reflective surfaces in the room.

The varying thicknesses and densities available allow acoustic foam to be tailored for specific needs. For voice recordings, 1" foam striking a balance of mid-high absorption is usually sufficient.

Sound Deadening Your Vehicle Evaluating Sound Absorbing

Sound deadening refers to the process of installing sound absorbing materials in vehicles, homes, and other structures in order to reduce noise levels. Some common goals of Sound Deadening include blocking unwanted road, engine, wind, and ambient noise.

By absorbing sound vibrations rather than reflecting them, sound deadening materials play a key role in improving audio quality and achieving a quieter interior environment.

How does sound deadening work?

Sound deadening works through the principles of sound absorption and transmission loss. When sound waves strike a porous, flexible material like bitumen or mass loaded vinyl, the energy is converted into heat rather than transmitted through or reflected by the barrier.

The tiny air pockets in these absorbing materials resist mechanical vibrations. By dampening resonances at specific frequencies, sound waves lose their energy as they pass into and through the barrier. Effective sound deadening traps sound within these materials rather than allowing it to propagate further.

Why is sound deadening important?

There are several important benefits of properly sound deadening a vehicle or structure:

Noise reduction improves comfort, reduces driver fatigue, and allows for conversation at lower volumes on roads or in noisy environments. This enhances safety and enjoyment.

Absorbing resonance improves audio quality in cars by taming boomy or muddled mid-bass. Speakers can be played louder while maintaining a clearer, crisp sound profile.

Home sound deadening blocks unwanted outdoor sounds like traffic, neighbors, and other ambient noise pollution for a more peaceful living environment indoors.

Thermal Sheet is important in commercial settings like recording studios, theaters, and industrial areas to control the transmission of noise.

Types of sound absorbing materials

There are several different categories of materials commonly used for sound deadening in automotive and architectural applications:

Mass loaded vinyl

Mass loaded vinyl (MLV) is a thick, plastic-like material with a high density additive called barite, sometimes referred to as mass loaded polymer. This makes MLV much heavier and more effective at damping vibrations than standard vinyl. It is self-adhesive for quick, mess-free installation. MLV is very flexible, forming easily to curved surfaces like vehicle panels and ceiling walls.

Bitumen

Bitumen is a heavy rolled material made of asphalt and felt fibers. It provides excellent sound absorption due to its semi-solid composition which turns vibrations into heat. However, bitumen can crack over time with temperature fluctuations and is less flexible than MLV. It requires application with adhesive for bonding.

Polyester insulation

Thick polyester wool insulation resembles fiberglass batting. It has an open, airy structure that allows sound waves to enter and diffuse, dampening resonances. Polyester is resistant to moisture, mildew, and rot. Its low density means it needs extra thickness for good sound absorption.

Rigid foam boards

Rigid foam boards like polyurethane and expanded polystyrene foam are denser than fiber or cellulose insulation. They perform well at blocking the structural transmission of noise. Foam boards are also used as acoustic panels on walls and ceilings. However, rigid foams are less effective for damping airborne sounds.

The table below summarizes some of the key characteristics of common sound absorbing materials:

Material	Density	Water Resistance	Flexibility	Effectiveness
Mass loaded vinyl	High	Medium	High	Excellent
Bitumen	Very high	Medium	Low	Excellent
Polyester insulation	Low	High	Medium	Good
Rigid foam boards	Medium-high	High	Low	Good at blocking transmission, fair for airborne sound

Evaluating sound absorbing properties

To determine a material's ability to dampen sound waves, its sound absorption coefficient is normally tested. This measures the percentage of sound energy absorbed rather than reflected at a material's surface. Tests are conducted in an accredited laboratory using a reverberation or impedance tube method.

The results are plotted in a graph to show absorption coefficients across the frequency spectrum, usually from about 100 Hz up to 5000 Hz and beyond. Materials absorb certain frequency ranges better than others depending on their physical properties like thickness and air flow resistance.

An effective all-around absorber will have high absorption coefficients across a wide frequency spectrum rather than just in narrow bands. For automotive and home audio use, absorbing the resonance peaks in the 200-500 Hz mid-bass region is particularly important to eliminate boominess. Materials with ratings above 0.5 or higher in these frequencies are very good performers.

The Ultimate Guide to Sound Deadening Your Vehicle

Why Sound Deaden a Vehicle?

Sound Deadening Product is the process of adding damping materials, such as Dynamat or Noico, to the Metal surfaces inside a vehicle to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).

Everyone desires a quiet, stress-free driving experience - however, most stock vehicles allow considerable road noise and vibrations to enter the cabin. By dampening the main points of entry, owners can significantly minimize these distractions to enjoy their commute or road trip.

There are a few key reasons why vehicle sound deadening is important:

Noise pollution is distracting. Excessive noise makes conversations difficult and detracts from enjoying music or audiobooks. It contributes to driver fatigue over long trips.

Vibrations cause physical discomfort. Harsh vibrations through the pedals or seating transmit throughout the body. This leads to an overall less relaxing driving experience.

A quiet ride enhances accessibility. For those who want to enjoy their vehicle but have sensitivities to loud sounds, damping is critical to ensure comfortable travel.

Reduced road noise aids concentration. With fewer outside disturbances penetrating the interior, the driver can better focus on the road and traffic situations. This minimizes accident risk.

Resale value is protected. Investing in this process preserves a vehicle's cabin atmosphere and maintains a higher quality perception for future owners.

One study by the University of California showed that a 3dB reduction in average road noise exposure decreased driver annoyance by 50%. Simply put, damping makes driving and riding in a vehicle far more enjoyable through effective noise control.

Why Sound Deaden a Vehicle?

Beyond the stress relief benefits, damping also improves audio playback within the cabin. The table below demonstrates how Dodo Sound Deadening can boost sound quality:

Before Damping	After Damping
Muddy, indistinct soundstage	Clear, well-defined soundstage
Bass distorted by road noise	Clean, tight bass not obscured
Vocals hard to distinguish	Vocals front and center in the mix
Music fatiguing to listen to	Pleasant listening experience

By reducing the transmission of outside noise into the interior surfaces and floor pans, the vehicle's stock audio system faces less external interference. This allows all frequency ranges to shine through clean and balanced. Passengers can enjoy their playlists and audio entertainment to a far greater extent.

Beyond the audible differences, drivers may also experience handling benefits after a dampening process. Stiffening the vehicle structure counteracts reverberations which can upset the suspension over bumps or cracks in the road. This leads to a smoother, composed ride quality conducive to confidence behind the wheel. With less energy lost to jitteriness, handling response may also marginally improve.

In summary, vehicle sound deadening provides a widespread upgrade to the ownership experience through noise control. Both physical and aural comfort levels rise to create a relaxing, fatigue-reducing cabin environment suited for any driving task. The muted acoustics allow passengers to fully tune in or tune out as they prefer.

Why Sound Deaden a Vehicle?

Beyond the subjective benefits, there are also measurable ways that sound deadening improves a vehicle's function. Some studies have shown damping can:

Reduce Interior Noise Levels by 50-75%. Scientific testing backs up anecdotal claims of dramatically muted road noises and vibrations penetrating the cabin.

Lower Speakers' Required Power by 3-5dB. With less ambient noise interference, audio systems do not need to overwork to be heard at comfortable levels.

Decrease Reverberation Time. The time it takes for a noise to fully dissipate inside the vehicle is reduced. This improves intelligibility.

Increase Speaker Damping Factor 2-3 Times. By stiffening the chassis, speakers can exert proper control over cone movement for tight bass.

Allow for Reduced Window Tinting. With less noise transmission, darker tints can be omitted to maintain safety and visibility levels.

It's also worth mentioning how sound deadening provides longevity benefits. The damping materials protect interiors by:

Reducing vibration fatigue on physical components over time under repeated road stimuli. Wiring, trim pieces, and control modules last longer.

Slowing the progression of rust around entry points by limiting moisture intrusion through small gaps diminished by damping.

Preserving plastics and vinyl surfaces from the accelerated UV exposure of constant vibration wear and premature aging.