Dynamat - What is it? Do I need it? How do I install it properly?

Yes, I have done multiple searches in the 3rd gen section for installing dynamat on a Double Cab 2016 Taco. There is a few threads on the Access Cab, but nothing really highlighting what, where, how and why to use it. I will be installing hard wiring in my Taco for the rear tailgate remote lock, go pro camera, radar detector power and radar detector remote monitor, garage door opener, and mini USB charger for my wife's phone; so I will have the interior apart to accomplish this; what better time to maybe install dynamat, but I do NOT fully understand what it is and its benefits.

I wanted to start a thread for Newbies like MYSELF; to learn about Dynamat:

1. What is Dynamat?
2. Do I really need it?
3. Do I want it or is it a fad and NOT really necessary?
4. Has anyone ever measured the before and after effects of Dynamat with a Sound Level meter to see the benefits?
5. What are the best installation methods?
6. Where do I install it? On ALL the doors, floor, back wall, ceiling etc?
7. Is it worth the cost?
8. Good and Bad experiences attributed with Dynamat?

Also:

 

Dynamat is sound deadener. It's basically what they stuff into the doors of nice trucks that advertise "quiet cab."

I've been in a few cars with it and it's much nicer than mine. However, it depends on how loud your truck is to begin with. If you have 33"s and a roof rack, it will make a difference because those are noisy. If you don't, you'll barely notice a change.

If you do it correctly, you would put it in all the doors, floor, back wall, and ceiling. Some people just do doors.

 

It's a pain to install because you basically have to gut the interior. If you're gutting it anyway for other reasons, it wouldn't hurt to add it. however I think these trucks are pretty damn quiet in stock form (The TRD OR anyway). I probably wouldn't spend the money on the material but that's just me. It can be pretty pricey. I did dynamat one of my old trucks and had a buddy who worked at Best Buy hook me up with the materials at employee costs....this was significantly cheaper than buying off the shelf. Not sure how pricing is on it these days. If you're going to do it, I'd splurge and buy the best stuff out there. The tar-type adhesive backed stuff, if they still carry it, can be messy and the aluminum /metal type covering on it is super sharp and will cut you badly if you're not careful... They might make it differently these days. Here's a pic of what I used back in the day...

 

My understanding is it is a sound deadening material. Dont think you need it in the 3rd gen Taco as much as previous models. Personally dont waste your money unless you have extremely sensitive ears

 

If you aren't "gutting" the interior, don't waste the money. Dynamat is a heavy foam insulator. it is expensive and heavy(as in weight). Unless you are completely remover all the interior seats/carpet, no sense in just patches here and there.

 

Usually it is butyl rubber (almost a heavy half-dry tar like consistency) not really a foam. Although they carry multiple products.

 

Good point, the dynamat is more of a vibration dampener and is that sticking crap. Dynaliner is the rubbery foam sound dampening material. plus all the other versions on top of that. I've wondered about the Dynaliner as a replacement for the carpet and the added benefit of sound deadening all in one?

 

Get some of this, much cheaper and does the same thing
@3378jakesr5 can answer your questions
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...-open-pack-size-h500-etc.362264/#post-9834529

 

Sound deadening material, essentially works by adding weight to lightweight metal panels, dampening vibrations. Often used in conjunction with closed cell foam to absorb sound.

That's personal. I think the '16 Tacoma does not but I've had vehicles that were unbearably loud, especially on the highway, that were screaming for it.

Fad? No. Also not necessary in this truck IMO. YMMV.

Not me, but I can tell you that holding a conversation in a normal voice on the I-5 through Seattle was impossible in my '04 Element prior to deadening (I always use RAAMmat, same basic idea) and you could speak in whispers after.

Strip the interior, add sound deadening everywhere, including inner and outer skins (and closed cell foam where it'll fit), reinstall interior.

Yes.

Depends. See #2.

Never used Dynamat, but I'm sure it's fine. No problems with RAAMmat.

 

Hey I've seen that stuff!!! Yah I can answer any questions

 

Thanks everyone so far for the GREAT INFORMATION, and answering my questions! Greatly appreciated.

Rattletrap66 thank you as well for the pic and the "other" brand that I can consider.

After all of these great responses; it got me thinking that it may also help insulate the cold and the heat depending on the season.

My Taco is pretty quiet as it is STOCK right now, but I do hear some wind noise behind me driver's rear passenger area.

I very happy with the noise level now, but in the future I will be lifting it and adding some decent wheels; so I DO know it will contribute to the noise.

Hopefully; others will find all of this information as beneficial as me .... Thanks Again everyone .... Now to measure my cab record the dimensions and PRICE out HOW much I will need.

 

The shok sound deadener is really great quality and I am saying that because it is and I have no ties with him. I did my whole truck with it (doors, back, floor, and ceiling) with 104 square feet of deadener. Or if you got the shok it would be 26 sheets. And it cost me just shy of 320$ shipped. He does group buys quite often and normally would cost you 630$ for it so your getting a great deal with it.

 

There is another link on this forum, maybe 2nd gen, on the Focal sound deadener.

It had the adhesive side as well as a foam. Might be worth a look.

I'll find a link to a guy who took it to the extreme with sound deadener, it's his business, but he also explains many different products too.

 

Thanks Forty2 for the detailed answers!

 

See this thread:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/2005-tacoma-double-cab-complete-audio-install-tutorial.16252/

Good info on what that type of stuff is, how to use it properly (where and how to install it), and some more affordable options to Dynamat.

 

Thanks .... never thought of searching audio setup.

 

I just installed dynamat in my truck. I did it mainly to improve the already great JBL system and to remove some buzzing panels in the door.
It was definitely worth installing it in the doors. I also installed it in the back of the truck, not really needed the truck is already pretty quiet, but I did notice a reduction in noise coming from the back. Installing in the interior of the cab is not so much fun but doable in a day.
If you choose to do so I recommend two door kits and one bulk pack for the interior.

$110 Dynamat Dynamat Xtreme Sound Deadening Car Insulation Door Kit – Pre Cut Noise Dampening Kit for 2 Standard Car Doors – Easy Self Adhesive Install – 4 Sheets 12”x36” Each, 12 sq ft total

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...id=1453439431&ref_=sr_1_2&s=automotive&sr=1-2

$240 Dynamat Xtreme Sound Deadening Car Insulation Bulk Pack – Noise Dampening Kit for Floor, Doors, Panels, Hood, Engine or Trunk – Easy Self Adhesive Install – 9 Sheets 18”x32” Each, 36 sq ft total

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...id=1453439431&ref_=sr_1_1&s=automotive&sr=1-1
Here are some pics to give you an idea:

 

I put some on my forehead.

What?

 

Thank You so much for this great info and pictures: exactly what I needed. Greatly appreciated.

 

HERE!

Check out this madman's build thread!

His Tundra was BRAND new before this.