Hi, I have a 65 Cutlass with original paint with the exception of the drivers side fender that needs to be replaced and repainted. The color of the car is R code target red. I went to my local paint supplier to have some lacquer paint mixed but the color seems to be a brighter red than the original color. I gave them the correct number 4625 LH that was printed in the service manual. Is it possible that the paint has faded or maybe got the mix wrong?

 

Both of those are possible. Also, quality controls were not as tight in 1965, so the original paint batch may have been slightly different from the standard.

Did you compare a bit of dried paint to an area that you had rubbed with a little bit of rubbing compound?

- Eric

 

The best way to colr match old paint is to have the paint store use their camera over the old paint, producing a formula for mixing the color on the car. You'll never get a match using the original code.

 

I talked to the paint supplier and he will scan the original paint and try to go from there. Will try to tint it to match and get it closer.

 

First. good luck with your paint supplier. I'm not aware of any color matching computer/spectormeter that is compatable with old lacquer formulas. There's four mixing colors in code R red. Bright red, Maroon, Black and white. Over time the bright red pigments die back, so the color shifts from bright red/orange to slightly darker and more maroon. It's posible to add a little maroon and black to adjust the new paint color a little closer. However it's not posible to get a perfect match on almost fifty year old paint. For a perfect looking match, blending into the door or painting the whole side of the car might be the only answer. good luck. ~BOB

 

The camera will get it close but it still won't be perfect a lot if different material used today compared to the old lead base paint! Now if it is just the fender any good painter can blend in on the hood and into the door area to make it easier on the eye but it still won't be perfect

 

I know it won't be a perfect match but as long it is close I'll be happy. Thanks for your replies.