fiberglass and mdf - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

djkow · 01-11-2004, 12:45 AM

i am planning to build my own box for my 2 12"s and have already got a set of plans and stuff...originally i was planning to have the box completely built from mdf wood, but i was wondering if on one side if i had a fiberglass panel instead...would that work? would it have any adverse effects on quality of sound? if it could work, would it be very hard to do?

thx in advance

Luc · 01-11-2004, 02:12 AM

It would depends on where you want the fiberglass to mold to in the trunk. If it's just a straight flat as a replacement for a side of the MDF box, then it's rather pointless, might as well use plexiglass instead. Thus, for those folds/bends that wood can't form to, fiberglass would be used. I'd suggest using at least 2 layers of fiberglass mat to build up the strength and allow 2-3 days for the resin to cure. Make sure it's done in a very well ventilated area.

djkow · 01-11-2004, 02:17 AM

my bad i meant plexigalss panel...got mixed up from reading all the other fiberglass diy's and articles

Fever · 01-11-2004, 10:34 AM

I've been thinking the same thing. I read where the plexi needs to be 3/4" thick. I've never cut plexi, but 3/4" sounds like it may be difficult to cut, no? And I'm sure it's more pricey than mdf. Maybe whoever supplies it can cut it to size. I would want to know the exact dimensions I needed when looking for it.

Good luck!

SolaraTRD · 01-11-2004, 02:21 PM

U need a thick amount, that's all i know. And cutting it, u could use a band saw to cut it. Don't use those circular rotating cutters (Forgot what they called) cause they chip and break when cutting through. I tried it. Unless u get a FINE Tooth/grit blade? never tried it thogh

Luc · 01-11-2004, 04:30 PM

Cutting 3/4" plexiglass requires more care and time compared to MDF. If you have access to a table saw, that would be the easiest. After the plexiglass is cut and if you plan on using neons to light them up along the edges, make sure you sand them down since they are rough after the cut.

djkow · 01-11-2004, 05:20 PM

hmm ok so it seems mixing the wood and plexiglass wont have any funky effects...does that mean they should all be the same thickness too? so 3/4" plexiglass and 3/4" mdf?

Luc · 01-11-2004, 10:17 PM

Yes, always use the same thickness.

djkow · 01-11-2004, 10:48 PM

tite thx for the help guys