Dodge Brite Canyon Red (R-4 (1978)) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This shade belongs to the glory days of the muscle truck. In 1978, this specific red was the signature of the legendary Lil' Red Express, a vehicle that famously outran Corvettes in a sprint. Because it was primarily used on heavy-duty models and vans, it carries a rugged, high-impact character. It is not a shy color; it is a deep, saturated red that was designed to be seen from blocks away. If you are working on a D-Series pickup or a vintage Sportsman van, you are handling a piece of Mopar history that defines the late seventies.

Technical Details

Technically, this is a solid finish. It lacks metallic flakes or pearl additives, which means you do not have to worry about the orientation of the particles or "mottling" stripes. The benefit is a deep, uniform look, but the challenge lies in the age of your vehicle. Red pigments are notorious for fading and oxidation after decades of exposure to the sun. Since your Dodge has likely been on the road for nearly half a century, the original finish has probably shifted toward a lighter, chalkier tone. You should expect the new pigment to appear much richer and darker than the weathered paint currently on your panels.

Best Practices

You can usually find your paint code on the metal fender tag located under the hood or on the manufacturing sticker inside the driver's door jamb. Before you spray or dab Dodge Brite Canyon Red (check for code R-4 (1978)), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. Red is a heavy pigment that settles quickly, and it requires thorough mixing to ensure the color isn't translucent. Test the color on the included card to see how well it matches your current level of fade. When you begin, keep the container moving to avoid pooling and apply the paint in thin, even layers. Work in a cool garage or the shade to ensure the drying time remains consistent and the finish lays down flat.