How accurate are the paint codes on the trim plate when using modern base/clear paints? I want to get as close as possible to the burgundy color originally found on my L-68 and I plan on asking the shop that has the car for their opinion, but I thought I'd ask here first.

I'm not talking about the difference in finish, I know it will be "shinier" than the original polished laquer.

Hans

 

I cannot speak for all paints but the shop that painted my 68 L79 used PPG to match the 988 Cordovan Maroon and I think it is dead nuts on.

 

Hans,

The paint codes aren't the problem... It's what happens when paint shops attempt to mix old paint colors using new mix formulas.

Solid colors are tough to get right... Metallics are darn near impossible because not only do you have to match the paint color, but you have to match metallic size, shape, and color in unison as it directly affects the paint color as much as the actual pigment does. Oh, did I mention you'll get a different shade on spray outs done on a horizontal surface as opposed to a vertical surface? Yeah, you'll need to deal with that too.

My opinion is that getting an accurate paint color (especially on metallic colors) is one of the most difficult aspects of a restoration.

If you want it done right...

Find a GM "standard" (paint plate) for 1969 Burgundy. Have your paint shop mix it to match the standard. It will probably take several tries to get it right. You need to make the paint shop aware that close is not good enough. This is where most paint shops will lose interest in your project as they aren't making any money mixing samples so you can do spray outs to make sure the color is accurate. When you get to the point where you can set the standard against your spray out and it disappears, you're where you need to be.

In any case, that's the procedure to get the paint color as accurate as possible.

Good luck with your project!

Regards,

Stan Falenski

 

What he said!

Getting two differently formulated paint brands to match color exactly is an ART, not a science. It takes a skilled paint mixer (might also be the painter) to do that work; and things like good eyesight, good color perception and good lighting all play a factor in getting a good match.

Many painters don't want to take the time to do the sample testing needed to obtain exacting standards. If you want that level of quality, you will have to find the right folks to do the work, as well as pay extra to get it.