Savage Build Spotlight: Ford Econoline Campervan E-350 - Classic Steel, Savage Soul

As classic as it gets - lots of life added to this 1988 Ford Econoline

Some vans fade into the background. Others stand timeless. This Ford Econoline campervan is the definition of classic steel with a Savage soul — reborn for modern adventures and ready to flex in the mountains. With mirror-red paint, solar power tucked on the roof, and a lakeside backdrop that screams freedom, this van isn’t just surviving the decades — it’s owning them.

Full walk-through in this 1:20 video — straight from our YouTube channel

Why This 1988 Ford Econoline Campervan Still Turns Heads

The Econoline has always been tough, but as a campervan it becomes something more: a symbol of independence. This isn’t just a van you drive — it’s one you live out of, chase sunsets in, and park where the pavement ends. From the Rockies to the shoreline, this Econoline stands tall as a true adventure rig.

Savage Touches That Define the Build

Every Econoline we touch gets more than a facelift — it gets attitude, functionality, and road-ready upgrades that keep it rolling for decades to come. Here’s what went into this one:

Interior

• Viper alarm system w/ remote start

• JL component speakers

• Alpine head unit

• Brandmotion front/rear monitoring system

• Full insulation with 3M Thinsulate (4-season use)

• Killmat sound dampening (floor & walls)

• Marathon tweed wall panels (grey heather)

• Lonmoire marine-grade flooring (Blanc)

• Black vinyl ceiling panels

• Custom black laminate cabinetry

• 6” full bed buildout

• Fridge on slider

• Diesel heater install

• MaxFan 6200 roof fan

• LED lighting throughout

• Propane cooktop/oven

• Multiple drawers & storage solutions

• Wheel-well storage enclosures

  
  

Off-Grid Electrical

• Dual 200Ah AGM batteries (Renogy)

• 200W solar array (Renogy)

• 20A DC/DC charger (Renogy)

• Renogy battery monitor

• Renogy solar charge controller

• Blue Sea fuse box + bus bars

• Complete wiring with fuses & circuit breakers

  
  

Mechanical Refresh

• New engine valves

• New alternator

• New distributor

• New ignition module & pickup

• New serpentine belt

• Remanufactured steering gearbox

• New power steering pump & pulley

• New starter

• New fuel pumps (high & low)

• Fuel selector actuator

• New sensors (EGR, O2, idle air control, etc.)

• Full filter replacements & service

  
  

Exterior Upgrades

• Fresh mirror-red paint (4-year warranty)

• Cooper Discover Snow Claw tires (x4)

• American Racing Outlaw II wheels (polished 16”)

• Full undercoating (rust prevention/protection)

• Baja Designs light bar

• Exterior LED + motion-sensor lighting

  
  

Before vs. After — Classic Steel, Savage Soul

Before: A workhorse van showing its age, parked in the shadows of its former glory. After, A bold Ford Econoline campervan glowing in red by a mountain lake, solar-equipped, custom-built, and ready for another lifetime of road trips.

Final Word

Some vans just move people. This one moves generations. With roots in Ford’s bulletproof Econoline platform and Savage upgrades breathing new life into it, this 1988 Ford Econoline campervan is proof that the classics aren’t going anywhere.

Classic steel. Savage soul.

EXPLORE SAVAGE VAN UPGRADES

Full body respray with mirror-red finish brings this Econoline back to life.

Restored Econoline stands tall with Savage upgrades and classic lines.

Iconic Ford Econoline styling enhanced with a Savage restoration.

Bold grille and fresh paint highlight the van’s timeless Ford look.

Finished rear view showcases clean lines and polished exterior details.

Classic alloy wheels wrapped in new tires for reliable performance.

Fresh paintwork under shop lights shows flawless Savage detailing.

Black cabinetry with wood drawers maximizes storage inside the Econoline.

Comfortable sleeping setup with cabinetry and mattress completes the van’s livability.

ICECO fridge and freezer integrated into the Econoline’s interior build for off-grid food storage.

Propane oven and cooktop add full cooking capability to the custom Econoline interior.

Retro red interior blends classic Ford styling with modern Savage upgrades.

Retro red interior blends classic Ford styling with modern Savage upgrades.

Black laminate cabinetry, drawers, and full bed buildout redefine the van’s interior space.

Undercarriage view of the Econoline after Savage mechanical refresh.

Polishing is an art and a time consuming one, pass by pass it turns into a mirror