Ford Bright Red (27) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This color represents the era of the square-body workhorse. When this shade hit the heavy-duty truck line in the early eighties, it was not trying to be fancy or sophisticated. It was designed to be seen from across a construction site or a wide-open field. It is a pure, unapologetic red that defines the rugged profile of a classic Ford. Since your truck has been on the road for decades, this color probably carries some memories and a fair amount of wear from the sun. It is a high-visibility, blue-collar classic that looks just as good on a restored show truck as it does on a daily driver.

Technical Details

You are working with a solid finish, which means there are no metallic flakes or pearls to complicate the process. This simplicity is a massive advantage for a repair in your garage because you do not have to worry about the orientation of tiny particles or uneven shimmering. However, red pigments are notorious for fading over time due to UV exposure. If the original paint on your truck looks a little dull or chalky, the new paint will appear much darker and richer by comparison. Taking a moment to clean and polish the surrounding area will help the new layer blend with the old finish rather than sitting on top of a layer of oxidation.

Best Practices

You can find your identification label on the driver's side door jamb, which will confirm your match. Since your truck has likely spent years under the sun, you should verify the color on the included card before you apply Ford Bright Red (look for code 27) to any deep scratches. Red paint relies on heavy pigments that like to settle at the bottom of the container, so shake it vigorously for a full minute to ensure the color is consistent. When you begin, keep the container moving and maintain a steady drying time between your layers to prevent runs. If you are using a pen or brush for small chips, dab the paint into the center of the damage and let it flow toward the edges for a flatter result.