actarnoff

iTrader: (1)

Is it me or does it still not match the original hood insulation?

GTA50

Problem is and always will be that until people are willing to "buck-up" to keep these cars as original as possible, the aftermarket products will be second rate.

I should show you the Rolex Daytona watch I bought in Malaysia for $10.

86WS6

iTrader: (1)

I have one from Hawks on my 82. I bought one for the 86 from a vendor on E-bay. They were both made by the same company.

The replacement hood insulation is a one size fits all for thirdgens, so it accomadates most models. That means that it has lots of places to punch out for hood scoops, vents, and other variations.

Both of mine actually look pretty good once they are installed. Some of the mounting holes don't align, however it is pretty easy to make ones that do. If you don't punch out the ones you don't use, they are not noticeable. Not exactly OE, however at the show they did not zing me for it. It is as close as is available for a reproduction part.

kitt23

iTrader: (4)

Is a hood insulation necessary?

82tarecaro

iTrader: (4)

If you want the hood insulation to look better, have it cut with the dark side out. It is still not a perfect match to the original, but at least it doesn't look like something you would insulate your attic with. I think most of the hood insulation is made by REM. For some reason the insulation for the early thirdgens is cut with the light side(uncoated side) out.
Most vendors can custom order it for you.

86WS6

iTrader: (1)

The original insulation on my 82 had the unfinished side out. It does make them look sort of ragged. The original insulation on the 86 was placed with the finished side out. Both of the replacements are placed with the finished side showing.

As for hood insulation being necessary? It probably it is not necessary. Often cars and light trucks with few options and models intended for police or taxi use don't come with hood insulation. It is supposed to cut down on noise from the engine bay and it makes the hood sound solid when you shut it.

The underside of thirdgen hoods don't look bad without insulation. The body color paint does not always cover the whole area, but that can be fixed.

Pat Hall

iTrader: (31)

Yeah, I took out my original hood insulation years ago, and it's never caused any problems that I can tell. Motor doesn't really sound any louder either. Honestly, the only reason I'd ever worry about putting insulation back in is if you go to car shows, and you're worried about the judges docking points for it not being there.