Window shades/blinds in ford passenger van

[RaptorD]

I just bought a 2014 Ford E350 passenger van. I would like to convert this so I will be able to live in it. One of the first things I want to do is install window shades/blinds. American Van Conversion offers them with string cords.

http://www.conversionvan.com/body-kits?page=shop.browse&category_id=82

Has anyone installed these? Are they easy to install on the side windows?

 

[MikeRuth]

sorry I haven't installed these but I though I'd raise the question...
Do you really want these things dangling around?
Are you handy with a sewing machine>? Make you own, probably for less than these shipped to you.

Nice choice on the Van, E-350 Psgr must be an extended body with lots of windows!
Working on a 2007 E-150 my self right now.
Mind if I ask what mileage and price you paid?

Mike R

 

[Stargazer]

The accordion type shades came on my van and I have had both the day/night shades and mini blinds in various RV's.

First, the accordion shades do not block light, they filter it. At night, when lights are on inside, you can see shapes through them from the outside. Also, there will be small gaps around the window edges, since the van window edges are not straight edged and they curve.

Blinds do rattle when the vehicle is in motion. You could raise them, which helps alleviate that problem. But again, due to the curve of the walls/windows, there will be gaps.

Window coverings were the most difficult part of my conversion. I ended up with heavy double fabric with rod pockets on spring tension rods top and bottom.

Congrats on your new van and best wishes!

 

[LeeRevell]

My E150 conversion van came with the aluminum (painted white) mini-blinds. I am removing them. Too noisy when driving, quirky operation, lots of light leakage. I am looking at the accordion style shades, to be used with thick curtains for better light-proofing at night. Lowes has some I like. Just need to see what width I need and order them to size.

 

[RaptorD]

Thanks for your replies.

@MikeRuth: I got a 2014 silver E350 XLT with 17,000 miles for 23K. It's the regular version, not the extended. I wanted a Ford and I didn't like the looks of the extended passenger econolines. I chose the passenger van over the cargo van for the windows. I tried sitting for a while in the back of a cargo van I rented and didn't like it at all. Sitting in the back of a passenger van put a smile on my face. I'm sure to find a good way to cover the windows at night. Maybe I'll try some combination of the pull down blinds and curtains.

 

[MikeRuth]

Thanks for your replies.

@MikeRuth: I got a 2014 silver E350 XLT with 17,000 miles for 23K. It's the regular version, not the extended. I wanted a Ford and I didn't like the looks of the extended passenger econolines. I chose the passenger van over the cargo van for the windows. I tried sitting for a while in the back of a cargo van I rented and didn't like it at all. Sitting in the back of a passenger van put a smile on my face. I'm sure to find a good way to cover the windows at night. Maybe I'll try some combination of the pull down blinds and curtains.

You got a sweet deal. Good luck with the window coverings and if you can show us some pictures on what you do choose.

TC and thank you,

Mike R

 

[akrvbob]

The most practical is to use compression to force Reflectix into the window well. It keeps all light out, keeps it cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Then close the curtains (or whatever you chose for looks only).
Bob