Alternative hood insulation.

[tecqboy]

3 years ago I had my local MB indy replace my deteriorated hood insulation. He used OEM foam pad and the required 3M adhesive. Well, now that new foam pad is falling apart. Literally crumbling into dust. I've looked on line and I can't find anyone who can provide a pad which isn't made from flimsy foam. The hood pad in my cheap Jeep is stamped out of some stiff hard pressed substance and looks like it will last forever. Is there anyone who has knowledge of a pad made of similar material which fits my 300SL? You'd think that the after market industry would have a solution for this. Thanks for any input.

[97 SL320]

The pressed stuff is likely fiberglass but it would offer less sound deadening.

There is probably something in the aftermarket, have a look at car restoration parts sites or Dynamat ( they make the tar sound panels )

Have a look at https://www.mcmaster.com/sound-absorbing-sheets

I've used 5692T49 when rebuilding a tow behind diesel air compressor but it has seen little use so I can't speak to long term life though I suspect it will be fine in my application.

You could also look at foil faced insulation McMaster sells
Heat-Reflecting Sound-Absorbing Sheets

Lifting the hood after a drive helps save paint, insulation and everything under the hood, I do this when arriving at home with some cars.

[gear-head]

Look to the boys in the hot-rod world, they have a number of really great hood insulation kits that are far better than anything that was on the older Mercedes. Their stuff lasts a whole lot longer and does a better job too. Not going to be an instant plug-n-play custom fit and yet it's not that difficult to cut the stuff and make it fit your application and my best guess it's probably going to cost less too.

[BWhitmore]

Dynamat is a great product. One side is adhesive, the opposite side is a foil like material. Great sound deadening product.

[ejboyd5]

Originally Posted by tecqboy

Is there anyone who has knowledge of a pad made of similar material which fits my 300SL?

Real 300 SLs (1954-1963) never had any under hood insulation.

[Rick76]

If you have proof that it was an original MB pad, you should write them and complain. The pad should last 15 to 20 years unless it got sprayed with oil.