Got some car time this weekend and came away with a question. This is my first genunine rag-top and this weekend was my first run at speed. I was surprised at the noise - specifically, the low frequency drone that starts about 80-85MPH. I am assuming it is the roof vibrating/resonating, but it started about 80 and continued through 105 at which point my wife woke up and we slowed down. Can anyone help me out here - is the drone "normal"? Does it go away above 100+? Maybe I just need to drive faster? Thanks.

 

you had the top up? or down?

truth is, the car is loud and only gets louder as you go faster. it's not just the convertible aspect, it's also the location of the transmission, the high-revving engine, the stiff body, etc etc.

for long drives if you have to have the top up i'd suggest earplugs. i got some from a guitar store that cut DB level and filter out supersonics. they're great.

 

I think it's illegal to drive with earplugs.

 

also illegal to drive without a front plate, and over 55 on most highways.

personally, i think that (after about 3 hours on the highway with the top up) you're a *safer* driver if you've had earplugs in.

oh... and the key is that the earplugs i'm talking about don't stop you from hearing *anything*. they're designed to be used by musicians. they just cut the *levels* across the board.

 

malachi,

Yea those are great! We have them cutsom made for us where
I work.

James

 

Yes, sorry, top was up. I imagine 100+MPH w/top down is loud.

 

i find the noise far more bearable with the top down myself. it's all wind noise at that point.

 

oh, if you want some of these earplugs and don't want to go to a local musician's supply store, these are very similar to the ones i bought.

 

May be getting some air under the roof seal...shouldn't be that loud. Check your owners manual and lube up the rubberwith some of that fancy Shin-etsu Grease....