Match OE quality during soundproofing replacement

Sept. 21, 2016
Since factory sound-proofing material is installed by a robot during the manufacturing process, it can be challenging to replicate the original factory appearance for customers.

Toyota, Lexus and Scion vehicles feature factory-installed sound-deadening material in the floor pan area. This material helps suppress road noise that may enter the cabin and makes travel more comfortable for passengers.

A longtime challenge
Since factory sound-proofing material is installed by a robot during the manufacturing process, it can be challenging to replicate the original factory appearance for customers. “Body shops have historically encountered considerable difficulty when replacing this material because they are unable to replicate the look of the original material,” says Joseph DiDonato, Collision Training Administrator, Technical & Body Training Department, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. “I have created a simple process that replicates the original look of the sound-deadening material using the replacement material.” Replicating the look and feel of the original material allows collision centers to live up to the commitment of returning each vehicle to the original factory specifications.

How to:
Step 1:  Use asphalt sheeting.

Step 2:  Take precise measurements of the sound-proofing material you are replacing before you remove the original material.

Step 3:  Using your measurements, cut a replacement strip from the asphalt sheeting.

Step 4:  Warm up the UV material with an infrared heat lamp or other heat source. This will make the material pliable.

Step 5:  Once the material is malleable, use a threaded rod from the hardware store to create the right texture by rolling the rod back and forth over the sheeting.

Step 6:  Immediately cool the strip by spraying it with water or submerging it in water. This ensures the material will retain its new texture.

Step 7:  Paint the material to match the original coloring.

For additional reference material relating to sound-absorbing materials, see CRIB #159—Corrosion Prevention and Sound-Absorbing Measures.  

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