Chevrolet Mariner Blue (523 (1974)) Touch Up Paint

The Look

Mariner Blue is the definitive workhorse shade for the 1974 truck lineup. It was a one-year standout that captured the transition from the utility-focused past to the more vibrant style of the mid-seventies Square Body era. Because this color was primarily used on C/K pickups, Blazers, and Suburbans, it carries a heavy sense of nostalgia and durability. It is a deep, honest blue that provides a perfect backdrop for chrome bumpers and white-painted roofs. Since your truck has likely spent decades working or weathering the elements, you will find that this color has a timeless character that modern, overly complex blues simply cannot replicate.

Technical Details

This is a solid finish, which means it contains zero metallic flakes or pearl additives. The lack of shimmer makes it a straightforward color to work with because you do not have to worry about the orientation of metal particles or "striping" in the finish. However, solid blues are notoriously unforgiving when it comes to surface preparation. Without any metallic sparkle to distract the eye, every minor ripple, sanding scratch, or dent in the steel will be magnified once the gloss is applied. Your goal is a mirror-smooth surface before you even think about starting your repair.

Best Practices

Before you apply Chevrolet Mariner Blue (look for code 523 (1974) on the Service Parts Identification sticker usually located inside your glovebox), you must shake the container vigorously for at least sixty seconds. The heavy pigments in these vintage blues tend to settle at the bottom. Always test the color on the included card to ensure it matches your specific truck's current state of fading. When you begin, keep the container moving across the surface to ensure an even coat without puddling. Allow plenty of drying time between layers so the paint can harden correctly, ensuring the deep blue remains crisp and sharp rather than looking soft or hazy.