1975–1983 Ford E-250 Econoline Carpet & Floor Mat Replacement – Buyer's Guide
July 01, 2025
The second-generation Ford E-Series Econoline vans from 1975 to 1983—especially the E-250—have earned their place as reliable workhorses for contractors, camper conversions, and even custom van life builds. Known for their rugged chassis, rear-wheel-drive layout, and bulletproof drivetrains, these Econolines are increasingly appreciated by both restorers and nostalgic owners who want to bring their interiors back to life.
But if you’ve spent any time inside one, you’ll notice a common issue: worn-out, faded, or musty carpet—especially around the doghouse engine cover or cargo bay. Replacing the carpet not only improves appearance and comfort but also adds insulation and value, making it a smart upgrade for daily drivers and restoration projects alike.
Factory Carpet Materials & Construction
For this era, Cutpile carpet was standard—short, dense, and appropriate for 1970s and 1980s interiors. All of our Econoline kits use this material by default, but you can upgrade to premium Essex for a plush feel. While Essex may not be OEM-correct, it’s a great option for modern comfort or custom builds.
All kits listed here are molded carpet kits, which means the carpet is heated and shaped over a floor pan mold to contour precisely to the Econoline’s footwells, tunnel, and step-down areas. Unlike older cut & sewn kits, molded carpet provides a more seamless installation and better OEM-style fit.
Sound & Heat Control: Add Mass Backing
Want to reduce road noise and cabin heat? Especially with the engine right inside the cabin under the doghouse, mass backing is a highly recommended upgrade for any molded kit. It’s a thick, heavy layer that’s bonded to the back of the carpet to add insulation and damping—ideal for vans with large panels, floor resonance, or where factory insulation has broken down.
Jute Padding & Engine Cover
All molded Econoline carpet kits include jute padding attached under the main floor sections for insulation and softness. And for front cabin kits, coverage includes the engine cover (doghouse)—a critical area for both comfort and noise reduction.
Need Help Choosing a Color?
Factory Interiors offers free material samples so you can compare color options and feel textures before committing. Cutpile and Essex have different shades, and lighting or monitor settings can vary—samples remove the guesswork.
Installation Tips from Van Owners
- Label and bag hardware when removing seats, trim, and threshold plates.
- Test fit carpet before trimming or making holes—especially around the engine cover.
- Use a drill bit in reverse to safely make holes without catching fibers.
- Warm the carpet in the sun or with a heat gun to reduce wrinkles before install.
Buyer's Table: 1975–1983 Ford E-250 Econoline Carpet Kits
| Product | Fitment | Material | Construction | Jute Padding | Image |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Complete Kit – Short WB (108") | Complete Interior w/ Engine Cover | Cutpile | Molded | Attached |  |
| Complete Kit – Long WB (128") | Complete Interior w/ Engine Cover | Cutpile | Molded | Attached |  |
| Complete Kit – Extended WB (148") | Complete Interior w/ Engine Cover | Cutpile | Molded | Attached |  |
| Passenger Area Only | Cab w/ Engine Cover | Cutpile | Molded | Attached |  |
| Cargo Area – Short WB (108") | Cargo Bay Only | Cutpile | Molded | Loose |  |
| Cargo Area – Long WB (128") | Cargo Bay Only | Cutpile | Molded | Loose |  |
| Cargo Area – Extended WB (148") | Cargo Bay Only | Cutpile | Molded | Loose |  |
Need Extra Material?
Need additional carpet to line interior panels, wheel wells, or build a custom doghouse wrap? Order extra yardage here: Carpet Yardage.
Why Buy from Factory Interiors?
Factory Interiors is your trusted source for Auto Custom Carpets (ACC)—the #1 manufacturer of automotive replacement carpet for over 50 years. All kits are made in the USA using high-quality materials and precise patterns. Whether you’re restoring a 1970s camper van or upgrading a commercial rig, we’ve got the right fit and support to get the job done right.