replace foam in engine compartment

[Dream Weaver]

I have a 1987 272LE with a Westerbeke 10/2 diesel. There is a lot of foam insulation attached to the wood that surrounds the engine compartment, as well as the removable wooden slats that access the water intake and shaft. Most of it has disintegrated and continues to make a mess, and of course the motor sounds much louder. Has anyone replaced this? An old salt said Home Depot sells this stuff and it can be attached with formica glue. I have not seen in at Home Depot. Can rigid foam insulation do the trick, or is it a fire hazard? If not what should I use to attach it? Thanks

 

[Tally Ho]

I need to do mine too....hoping to see some recommendations. If not, try posting it under the Shared Forums...All Sailors. Not really a brand-specific question. I have looked at rigid foam board with foil face. I think it would work as far as insulation, but not sure it would deaden sound as well. Also considered Reflectix, which is like bubble wrap faced with foil. Easier to fit in place I think, but not sure how durable it is. There are some aftermarket sound / insulation available, but fairly pricey. Also, it seems a lot like the stuff that has deteriorated on my 1988 O'Day 322. Hopefully others will have some good ideas/recommendations.

Here is a link to one product on Defender...
http://www.defender.com/product3.jsp?path=-1|311|2349105&id=95998

Greg

 

[Mickstr]

I used a board like this, and cut to fit. Helped pretty well. I attached it with a few sheet metal screws and finishing washers from the outside, no glue. Materials cost maybe $15.00.

http://www.homedepot.com/p/R-Tech-3...89-Foam-Insulating-Sheathing-310873/202530470

 

[Panta Rei]

Acoustical foam with a thick heavy rubber layer will block the noise much better than thermal foam. It will cost you more $$$ . I replaced my foam with the acoustical sandwich but I feel the new engine mounts and precise alignment made a larger noise reduction since vibrations through the boat added more to the noise.