Ford Candyapple Red (2K (1980)) Touch Up Paint

The Look

The 1980 model year was a turning point for Ford trucks, marking the birth of the famous Bullnose generation. This particular shade is pure Americana, providing a high-visibility, deep finish that defined the Bronco and Econoline vans of the era. It is a loud, unapologetic red that was meant to be seen. Since your vehicle has likely been on the road for over forty years, you should expect some minor deviation between the fresh paint and your weathered panels, as red is often the first color to show its age under the sun.

Technical Details

This is a solid finish, which is a blessing for anyone working in a garage or under the shade of a tree. Because there are no metallic flakes or pearls inside, you do not have to worry about the paint looking "tiger-striped" or mottled if your technique is a little uneven. The challenge with a solid red is the pigment density. Red pigments are heavy and can be somewhat transparent, meaning the color relies on build-up. If you apply it too thin, the primer might peek through, but if you go too heavy, you risk a sag.

Best Practices

You can verify your paint match by looking at the safety certification label located on the driver's side door jamb. Before you spray or dab Ford Candyapple Red (check for code 2K (1980)), you must shake the container for at least a full minute to lift the heavy pigments off the bottom. Test the color on the included card to ensure the shade sits right against your existing finish. When you start your repair, keep the container moving to maintain a steady flow and prevent pooling. Give each layer plenty of drying time so the finish can harden properly before you decide if it needs another coat.