Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[Southernscouse]

Hi my Austin Devon van is not garaged and the painted metal interior has lots of condensation what would be the best material to cover the interior

[Vintage Fly Guy]

I'd be more inclined to sort the damp out rather than just try to mask it with some sort of covering. Have you considered a dehumidifier? One of those designed for the inside of a caravan or camper van with replaceable hydroscopic cartridges (rather than something that requires battery or mains power) might be worth trying?

It might not stop all condensation forming on bare metal at 'peak times' (such when a prolonged cold snap ends and it suddenly goes mild) but it should help, as long as you empty it regularly and replace the cartridge as required. Two might be needed if it's a damp winter to stand a chance of reducing the damp. Also place it so air can best circulate through it, rather than putting it up against something. Don't put it on upholstery or carpets though in case it leaks, as it will stain them blue! Likewise, take care not to spill the contents when removing it to empty it.

https://www.screwfix.com/p/unibond-aero-360-moisture-absorber-0-924ltr/791xr

https://www.amazon.co.uk/AERO-Ultra-Absorbent-Dehumidifier-Condensation-Recyclable/dp/B08JMFHLRB/ref=sr_1_4?crid=3JVQ4NSFLIW1H&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.s91CVjDbirZq81kDYLQxG5ubTyYn5xfJdjJ5Z5l2qoZ30q1wUjajwfO9gtNuvkQ4T-utbo1o-9hFxHx7wufW4fXC5MotlrRbGXSnI6RcxLD7Vpbv85kO0_jBdP6Z378iejq-J-M3eDcaqUuEy0vg8E3SDqd_etyfl1P-vZvSRBZ1Kq07tBzaWyBUVkZMhw_05iVUCKWRnvwG2ltFwWDIx1NK3mM-og3d1lsBgeqbMjw.XBUy_nYcg1-IK_hrYC362s0S1hwkemIYeTLAOgDJJ9g&dib_tag=se&keywords=unibond%2Baero%2B360&qid=1769691334&sprefix=unibond%2Baero%2B360%2Caps%2C110&sr=8-4&th=1

[consul 57]

while i have a good enclosed car port i put damp eaters in the car when i am not driving it, they do take moisture of of the interior air, a cheap and easy way to control it.

[Southernscouse]

At the moment I am using a 12v dehumidifier that is normally in my camper have tried the small bags which change colour when damp but because it?s just a painted steel box fighting a losing battle was hoping someone had this problem before

[Southernscouse]

At the moment I am using a 12v dehumidifier that is normally in my camper have tried the small bags which change colour when damp but because it?s just a painted steel box fighting a losing battle was hoping someone had this problem before

[alastairq]

I tried those diatomaceous earth bags from a well known old car spares supplier....placed inside the car

Be warned, once they absorb just the wrong amount of condensation, the bags burst [if forgotten about]....creating one 'eckova mess.
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Dellow Mk2, 1951 built, reg 1952.
Fiat 126 BIS
Cannon special [1996 registered. Built in 1950's]
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Ford Pop chassis, Ashley 1172 bodyshell, in pieces.