Insulation in door panelling

[lettereleven]

I had the opportunity to remove the interior panel on the rear door of my L400. I noticed that there was no "insulation" between the panel the the exterior sheet metal. Is that normal?

Would there be any benefit/drawback to putting some in there?

Sorry for the potential silly question. Yes it's the first time I've removed panelling from a van.

Thanks in advance!

Jamie

[92pajero]

Insulation is not common unless in a conversion van or a camper van. Not recommended due to the fact fibreglass insulation will retain moisture and cause rust to speed up. The usual is a plastic barrier between the inner panel and the inner sheet metal frame. This is meant to eliminate air draft/leaks and maintain heat/cold within the cabin.

Kelly

[lettereleven]

Good to hear, thank you Kelly.

I really enjoy hearing that I DONT have to undertake a project that doesn't add to the overall look/function of the van.

Cheers
Jamie

[mararmeisto]

The panel you took off the door to look inside the door panel - that was the insulation. Mostly for sound, not for temperature.

As the other poster mentioned, only the campers will be insulated, and even then I don't think they shoot foam into the frame - it's just hung on the inside. The metal has to 'breathe' in order to stay dry, otherwise it rusts away due to trapped moisture. Similar concept as the outside cladding of a house.