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Trick Truck Suspension
Free Jaguar? Don Shirer couldn’t resist the tempting offer, even if it meant just for the prized suspension lurking beneath. This XJ6 boasted the coveted independent rear suspension and A-frame front, perfect for his vision of a smoother-riding ’55 Chevy pickup. Follow along as Shirer masterfully tackles the swap, using readily available tools and his own ingenuity to bridge the gap between classic and modern.

High Performance Rebuild
The small-block Chevy has enjoyed a long, happy life. Sure, the current LS1/LS6 version is quite far removed from the original, but thousands upon thousands of little mouse motors continue to provide the sole means of motivation to everything from stationary irrigation pumps to Le Mans-winning C5R Corvettes. Naturally, this list also includes all manner of boulevard bruisers, street stompers and resto rockets. Heck, we’ve even seen little Chevys under the hood of “Brand X” machinery. The continued popularity of the small-block Chevy is not surprising. Take a look at the combination of power potential and parts availability and multiply that by the cost quotient, and you have the makings of a real success story. Add to this equation the millions of project motors just sitting around junkyards throughout the world, and it is easy to see why enthusiasts continue to embrace the mighty mouse motor as the performance powerplant of choice.

COVER YOUR BOTTOM
There are many ways to finish the bottom of any car. Whether you are building new, from the ground up or even detailing a rebuild that is not the off-the-frame type, you have options. And regardless of the extent of the refurbishing, you could even leave the underside in some shade of primer as it is easy to touch up, and the fenderwells and underside often become marked with use.
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Dynamat ProXTM Sound Deadening Mat
Next Level sound deadening for cars, trucks, & custom builds
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photos courtesy of Dynamat
Let’s be honest—most sound-deadening upgrades feel like a small step forward. ProX™ isn’t that. This is Dynamat taking everything they already did right with Xtreme and pushing it way harder.
Same proven butyl formula? Yep.
But now it’s twice as heavy, backed by a thicker 5 mil aluminum skin, and built to flat-out dominate noise and vibration instead of just managing it.
Real-World Performance That Redefines Sound Control
And you feel that difference immediately.
Close a door after installing Dynamat ProX sound deadening, and it goes from that hollow, tinny “clang” to a solid, confidence-inspiring thunk. Hit the road, and the usual drone, rattles, and panel buzz start disappearing. It’s the kind of upgrade that doesn’t scream for attention—but once it’s there, you’d never go back.
Proven Gains Over Traditional CLD Mats
What really separates Dynamat ProX sound deadening from the pack is the performance behind it. Independent testing shows 56% better damping than Dynamat Xtreme, and up to 350% better than other CLD mats out there. That’s not marketing fluff—that’s real, measurable improvement you can build around.
Advanced Technology and Thermal Control
The added mass plays a big role, but so does Dynamat’s VECTOR™ Chemistry, which actually converts vibration into low-level heat energy. In simple terms, it doesn’t just block noise—it kills it at the source. Pair that with heat reduction and moisture resistance, and you’re getting more than just a quieter ride—you’re getting a more controlled, more comfortable cabin overall.
SEMA-Proven Application in Real Builds

Dynamat even put it on display in the ’70 Chevelle “Doughboy” SEMA build by Blazin Rodz’, letting people see how it fits into a real-world project. The takeaway? If you’re already investing time and money into a serious build, this is one of those upgrades that makes everything else feel more finished.




Dynamat ProX™ Specs at a Glance
- 120 mil butyl core (1 lb per sq. ft.)
- 5 mil aluminum top layer
- 3.05mm total thickness
- 9 sq. ft. coverage (4 sheets)
- Works on sheet metal, fiberglass, and more
Twice the mass. Zero compromises.
Dynamat ProX sound deadening is heavier and thicker, built for real noise and vibration control.
Proven performance
Up to 56% better than Dynamat Xtreme and 350% beyond other CLD mats.
Kills noise at the source
VECTOR™ Chemistry converts vibration into heat—eliminating it, not just covering it up.
Built for serious builds
When “good enough” isn’t an option, this is the automotive sound deadening mat you reach for.
ARTICLE SOURCES
Dynamat, LLC
#1 Name in Soundproofing & Heat Control
Dynamat is 100% proudly Made in the USA.



