First Generation (1964-1966) Barracuda Carpet "Alternatives"

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dibbons

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Has anyone tried or considered using something besides carpet on the back side of the rear seat, the side panels in the cargo area, the fold-down trunk divider, and/or even the floor of the cargo area? In place of carpet, I was thinking of something like a foam-backed fabric that is used on the padded dashes and door panels. Just an idea, trying to think out of the box.

I could always change those pieces over to the pre-cut carpet in the kits at a later date. I am loosing some international shipments this year and I'm not willing to pay up front for a complete carpet kit and have it not arrive here safe and sound (and when shipping does pan out is too darn expensive in the first place). I have experienced increased problems lately with customs and delivery failures.

rear cargo.jpeg


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Never really thought about it but it's a pretty good idea. The only thing is that you may want to use a more durable material. I wouldn't pad it too much unless you're going for the sofa look! 65'
 
Honestly there is a outdoor low shag style carpet used for things like sun porches or inside of boats. Typically grey or green or even black (fades to a weird red color over time). It’s thin looks like carpet and easy to glue. I typically buy or from Home Depot here in Connecticut but I bet a boat marina or store has it in cut to length off the roll. Cheap too.


Food for thought.
 
I did mine with Pep Boys black 'carpet' but it was more like a fuzzy mat. It cut easily glued down nice and has not faded yet. It was like $10 a roll. Its this "cutpile" texture.
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Kitty and I cut come astroturf for my trunk mat. Maybe something like that?
 
Kits were not available when I did the back end of my old '66. The flat areas were easy, but I managed to do the wheel wells and make it look good with the right amount of "wedge" removal to follow the contours. Glued it down and still looked good last time I saw the car (a few years ago). It was good automotive carpet glued down with 3-M contact adhesive.
 
The other way out of the box option is truck bed liner. That textured stuff people use to coat metal surfaces of trucks that take abuse. Spray on parts and dry. It’s rough and tumble but a real pain to get off.
 
The side panels of some 67 Barracudas used the same vinyl as the upholstery. Just glue it on and trim.
 
Marine carpet. As others mentioned. It stands up very well.
 
I dont think its "walk on" strength but if you have mats, it should stand up to all 'covering' duties. I used spray adhesive, spray the metal and spray the back of the material and let set for about 15 minutes and then stick together.
 
I believe I loose laid that stuff in my 71 Pontiac back in the day, tucked the ends under the sill plates and bolted my bucket seats through it. I was a kid dint event think of "glue" It was cheap back then though and I could afford it being 18 with a job etc.
 
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