Insulating A Commercial/Aluminum/tradesman Shell?

Hey TW, recently swapped out my fiberglass cap for an ex utility ARE aluminum unit. Love the heavy duty locks and side access panels, and how inexpensive these are used (relatively speaking compared to other offroad stuff, or buying new!) .

After a couple hours of simple green, clay bar, and interior powerwashing, the shell is ready for a build out. I've seen some great threads for design inspiration, but after doing some searches, I don't seem alot on insulating these commercial shells?

I've looked at some RV sites but alot of the insulation is bulky. Fiberglass is definitely out, so I'm considering some sort of plastic based insulation that I can install via roll or square. Wiring will go after insulation, then marine grade carpet and lights and switches.

Shell will be used mostly for storage or when I solo camp with just the dog. +1's get a tent .

 

Is that your D1 in the background, too?

 

It is indeed. Most capable offroad vehicle I've ever owned. It was a turnkey overland rig I bought from a friend. Nothing like a short wheelbase. But talk to me about maintenance and reliability...

 

Had one for years and they are cool vehicles but indeed very poorly engineered. The positive is they can be bought for pennies on the dollar if you are handy

For insulation; is dynamat a possibility?

 

I was going to say the same thing. Dynamat or something similar.

 

Nice canopy. How much does it weigh?

I'd put polyiso foam type insulation between the ribs, and then a layer of Reflectix over everything. I've never heard of using sound insulation for thermal insulation but I suppose it's got some R value. Foam and Reflectix is probably cheaper and would have a higher R value.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Thermas...-Rigid-Foam-Insulation-Board-787264/100549260

 

Foam board is what most folks have been using for decades now. Lauan or other thin material to cover it.

 

I think there is some R value with some of the sound deadening materials, but I think given the space between the ribs, your solution is much cheaper, easier to install and more effective.

 

If I can find an aluminum cap I plan on using this:
https://lizardskin.com/

GL on your quest
-M

 

Did you get this shell new or used? And if used was. Made specific for a 3rd gen tacoma? Ive got the regular dcu on mine but was wanting one with doors that open. I know a regular 2nd gen shell wont fit a 3rd gen but thought maybe the ones with the doors would work since you dont have to worry about lining up with the tailgate.