Soundproofing and insulation for a campervan

Soundproofing and insulation for converting buses to a campervan
The Old Timer vans of Mercedes are one of the most popular vehicles, which, in some cases, are literally being transformed into fantastic campervans. This type of Mercedes van is ideal to convert into a campervan, but from an acoustic point of view this situation is less ideal. In this article we focus on the 508 and 608 type. Besides, we will describe how to solve the most common sound problems.

Insulation for the bonnet
The most common sound problem is noise produced by the engine. The van contains a small bonnet made from steel at the outside, underneath the front window, and a bonnet in the cabin. As for insulating, it is very important to apply the right products at the right place, so make sure to attentively read this article. The bonnet from steel at the outside has to be treated first. You can do this by using so-called anti-drumming mats like Vibraflex Normal. This product prevent the bonnet from resonating, avoiding a ‘gong-effect’. The material also adds mass to the bonnet, reducing the amount of noise it radiates. On top of the anti-drumming mats you then apply absorption material in order to absorb the engine noise. In the case of the outside bonnet, where you have enough space between the hot engine parts and the absorption material, we advise you to use Acousticcell PU. This product is self-adhesive and provided with an oil- and moisture-tight top layer.

Insulation bonnet in the cabin
Anti-drumming can’t be applied to the inside bonnet, at least not at the side of the engine, because of high temperatures. It is possible to equip the outside of this bonnet with Vibraflex Extreme anti-drumming mats. In order to finish the whole thing and in order to add another layer of insulation, you can apply Isomat FM on top of the Vibraflex. Isomat FM (floor mat) is not self-adhesive, but can be attached using glue spray. At the inside, the bonnet can be equipped with Merfocell FC. This is a self-adhesive absorption material with a top layer of fiber glass cloth which can bear temperatures of about 100 degrees Celsius. In case of even higher temperatures we recommend using Aluglass, a product which is also used as a heat shield. For both products the same principle applies: the thicker, the better.

Soundproofing floor, bulkhead and wheel arches
Through these surfaces, engine and driving noise can enter the vehicle. Ideally, they are insulated using Vibraflex Extreme. Equip as many surfaces with these products in order to achieve an optimal result. Preheat the products in order for them to be flexible and completely cover the substrate, especially when it’s surface is uneven, like the wheel arches.

Soundproofing doors, side panels and roof
Often these are large surfaces that quickly resonate, and thus radiate noise. Equip minimally 70% of these surfaces with anti-drumming mats (ones that are not too heavy). As for the side panels and doors, we recommend using Vibraflex Normal.

Thermal insulation for campervans
Thermally insulating your motorhome or van is possible with Akotherm polyester wool. Fill empty voids such as side panels, roof liner and the dashboard with this insulation in order to achieve optimal results. We recommend using a minimal thickness of 40mm for behind the interior panels.

More information about insulating vehicle
On our tips page Sound Insulation for Motorhomes you will find more information. On our vehicle page you will find several applications to soundproof vehicles.

Questions?
Please feel free to contact us, we will be happy to answer your question as soon as possible.