How to Block the Noise of Boom Cars

Car speakers produce sounds in a range of frequencies that may travel beyond the confines of the vehicle.

High-intensity and high-quality stereo systems may produce tones and sounds which extend far beyond the confines of the vehicle. Woofers and subwoofers produce low-frequency sounds that travel through the metal confines of the cabin and body of the vehicle. Sound control of high-intensity stereo vehicles, or boom cars, requires installation of dampening materials on the interior metal surfaces to control transference of sound waves and vibrations. Installation of sound control measures may be required for some boom cars to pass noise related state laws and local ordinances.

Things You'll Need

• Sound-deadening mats
• Roller
• Carpet knife
• Acetone

Instructions

Prepare the Vehicle

1. Remove the seats from the vehicle. Unbolt or unscrew the seats and retaining rails. Disconnect any electronics for electrically controlled seating adjustments. Remove the seats, rails and any seating equipment from the vehicle.

2. Remove the upholstery and trim from the interior of the vehicle. Carpeting, plastic trim and ceiling upholstery should be carefully removed to avoid damage and set aside. Remove any padding or insulation to expose the interior metal surfaces of the vehicle body.

3. Remove the door trim and any insulation from each vehicle door and set aside. Remove any trunk material to expose the metal surfaces of the trunk.

Installation

1. Clean the surfaces of the metal with acetone. Pour the acetone on a rag and wipe down the surfaces to remove any particles and materials which will prevent the sound-dampening material from bonding to the surface.

2. Install the sound-dampening material according to manufacturer instructions. If you have selected a spray-on material, cover the surface fully and allow to dry. If you selected a mat-type material, be sure to install the mats on the interior metal surface without air bubbles between the mats and the metal. Use a roller to compress the material directly to the metal surface.

3. Reinstall the trunk material, door insulation, door covers, interior upholstery, seating hardware and seats.

4. Install a sound-deadening hood liner. Sounds escaping through the firewall will be dampened with a deadening hood liner. Hood liner mats differ from interior mats by providing additional heat and weather resistance.

Tips & Warnings

• Acetone is most commonly available as nail polish remover available at most drug stores.

• If using asphalt-based sound-deadening mats, lay out the mats in the sunlight prior to installation to enable the asphalt to warm and become more pliable.

• Professional installation is available at most stereo shops.

• When using acetone and some asphalt-based products, a well ventilated area is recommended.

References

• Fat Mat: Sound Deadener Defined
• Super Sound Proofing Company: Hood Liner