Dodge Light Blue Metallic (DT-8575 (1973)) Touch Up Paint

The Look

Your 1973 Dodge truck represents a pivotal era when pickups moved away from being purely farm tools and started becoming "lifestyle" vehicles. This specific blue was a staple on the D-series and the then-revolutionary Club Cab models. It is a light, airy shade that captures the optimistic aesthetic of the early seventies. Because your truck has likely spent decades working under the sun, the original finish might have shifted or faded, so expect a fresh application to look a bit more vibrant than the surrounding weathered panels.

Technical Details

This is a metallic finish, which means it relies on tiny flakes to reflect light and provide depth. Metallic paints are prone to mottling, those dark streaks or "tiger stripes" that happen when the flakes clump together. This usually occurs if the paint is applied too heavy or if the container stays still for too long. Since this is a vintage-style metallic, you will need a clear coat over the top once you finish the color work to protect the flakes and provide the correct level of gloss.

Best Practices

You can find your data plate on the driver's side door jamb or occasionally on the radiator support under the hood. Before you spray or dab Dodge Light Blue Metallic (check for code DT-8575 (1973)), you need to shake it for 60 seconds to ensure those heavy metallic flakes are fully suspended. Work in a cool garage or the shade rather than direct sunlight to prevent the paint from drying mid-air. Always test the color on the included card to verify the match against your specific truck before you touch the metal. When applying the color, keep the container moving in steady, even passes to prevent the flakes from pooling. Allow ample drying time between light coats rather than trying to cover the damage in one thick layer.