71 Grill Paint

[Tom Fetchik]

Hello,

Has anyone found a paint that closely matches the silver-gray color found in the square egg crate areas on 71 grills?

I've tried several different paints and they all come out much lighter or darker. It seems the original had a crystal like luster

Thanks

[Rick Dykstra]

Re: 71 Grill Paint

For what it is worth, I just did mine a couple weeks ago. Same dilema, to light, to dark. I ended up using Plasticote's Rebuilder Gray over a Flat Black Primer.Seems to darken it enough, over the black, just a very tedious, time consuming job! Finished job speaks for itself. Hope this helps.

[Jack H.]

Re: 71 Grill Paint

The 'closest' match I've seen out of a single can (blending as already suggested is about the only way to get dead nuts on) is to use the knock off wheel spoke paint that's available in spray cans from any number of mid-year parts catalog houses.

[Terry M.]

Re: 71 Grill Paint

Here you go - this is from the original print, but may be hard to find materials today.

1970-1972 GRILLE PAINT

Gray: (original spec) Dupont 863-42103 to match WOA-3406 (one paint dealer reports to match WOE-340) This spec, which is off the original print, may mean little to a Dupont supplier. Use code 9931 below for current match.

Use primer/sealer first then:

use Dupont code 9931 at 5% gloss level. (a flattener will have to be added to achieve this level) This code also includes an additive that will yield the rough surface of the gray area.

Small recess surrounding the lamp lens should be flat black:

Dupont 898-9881 to match WA 30 x 848

Good Luck

Terry

[Tom Fetchik]

Re: 71 Grill Paint

Thanks to all for your suggestions.

The shop who painted my car said he could have the original grill scanned and come up with a curent formula.

I'll let everyone know if I choose to do that.