I'm inching along with a G-18 Bostig conversion on a '84 westy.  I'm
leaning new things each day.  It is great fun to do the kit, albiet at
my pace.
........

There is this material, like a hard spongy layer, that is above the
tranny and covers all the interior metal in the van from underneath.
On my van, this material is crumbling apart. I'm replacing my
engine/tranny at the moment and I was wondering if I should source
this for a replacement or remove it entirely. I'm guessing it is more
for sound properties rather than heat properties. Any thoughts?

Some readers from the Pittsburgh vanagon list might have a double
post, so my apologies.

Greetings from Austin, Texas - USA.

+nirav