Chrysler Charcoal Poly (OO-1 (1963)) Touch Up Paint

The Look

In 1963, Chrysler was moving away from the wild tailfins of the fifties and into a more formal, executive era. This shade was the peak of that professional aesthetic. Whether you are touching up an Imperial or a 300J, this color gives the car a heavy, expensive presence that modern grays cannot match. It sits right on the edge of black, providing a deep shadow that makes your chrome trim stand out with sharp contrast. Since your Chrysler has likely been on the road for decades, you will find this shade is excellent for hiding minor body waves that lighter colors would reveal.

Technical Details

This is a metallic finish, which in the sixties was often called a Polychromatic or Poly paint. It relies on tiny aluminum flakes to create depth and character. These flakes are the most important part of the repair. If they settle at the bottom of the container or if you apply the paint too heavily in one spot, the color will look uneven or blotchy. This happens because the flakes stand on their ends instead of lying flat. To keep the finish consistent, you must maintain a steady flow and avoid letting the paint pool in any single area.

Best Practices

You can usually find your paint code stamped on a metal data plate located on the driver's side door pillar or under the hood on the radiator support. Before you spray or dab Chrysler Charcoal Poly (check for code OO-1 (1963)), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. This is the only way to get the metallic particles off the bottom and into the mix. Test the color on the included card to ensure the flake density looks right before you touch the vehicle. When you begin the repair, keep the container moving at all times to ensure the metallic bits distribute evenly. If you are working in your garage or the shade, give the paint plenty of drying time between layers to prevent the heavy pigments from sagging.