Color Archive

[sw48]

There are many variables in matching paint: the condition of your sample, is it faded, is it actual original paint, etc. Another method of obtaining a sample is to find a can of original paint, preferably unopened, thoroughly mix it up and spray some on a piece of metal big enough for the computer camera. Let it sit for several days to fully dry.
Color matching is not an exact science, We just have to do the best we can.
Dave

I agree that one of the best methods to obtain the original color is to paint a swatch using a can of the original paint. I used this method when restoring my 1947 knucklehead back in the late '90's.
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[exeric]

I just opened a 1/4 pint can of TANGO RED that I have had for at least 30 years. Obviously it had been opened years ago and drooled on the outside of the can yet the can is virtually full and what paint is missing is mostly what's on the outside of the can. It stirred up very well and dried after 4 or 5 hours. I mention this because I am considering re-painting my '48FL in AZURE BLUE and wondering if anyone would trade a like can of azure blue, for my can of tango red.

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[PaulCDF]

Looks like we have a couple of examples for the "Color Archive' i wonder what years HD used Tango Red?

[sw48]

[QUOTE=exeric;n344994]I just opened a 1/4 pint can of TANGO RED that I have had for at least 30 years. Obviously it had been opened years ago and drooled on the outside of the can yet the can is virtually full and what paint is missing is mostly what's on the outside of the can. It stirred up very well and dried after 4 or 5 hours. I mention this because I am considering re-painting my '48FL in AZURE BLUE and wondering if anyone would trade a like can of azure blue, for my can of tango red.

Hi Eric, I have a can of azure blue that I don't think has been opened but would like to hold onto it as I have a 1948 UL in azure blue. If you want to send me a coupon of some kind I will paint it and send it back to you. Years ago the gas tanks and dash were repainted although the fenders are original paint. I am enclosing a photo of the label on this can which resulted in a good match to the OP fenders.

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