Ford Dark Brown Metallic (5-Q (1977)) Touch Up Paint

The Look

In 1977, the Thunderbird was the king of the personal luxury segment, and nothing defines that era of sophistication quite like a deep chocolate earth tone. This color choice helped ground the massive proportions of the late-seventies Ford lineup, giving these heavy-hitting coupes a sense of weight and elegance. Because your car has likely spent decades on the road, you are probably dealing with some level of paint fade. This finish was designed to look rich and substantial, providing a dark backdrop that made chrome bumpers and vinyl tops stand out.

Technical Details

This is a metallic finish, which means it relies on tiny flakes to create depth and character. Metallic paints are prone to mottling, a phenomenon where the flakes bunch up and create uneven dark or light patches across the surface. These particles are heavier than the liquid paint and will sink to the bottom of your container within minutes. If the flakes are not evenly distributed during application, the repair will look like a different shade. Managing the density of these metallic bits is the only way to get a clean match on a 1970s Ford.

Best Practices

You can find your identification plate on the driver's side door jamb to confirm your match. Before you spray or dab Ford Dark Brown Metallic (check for code 5-Q (1977)), you need to shake the container for a full sixty seconds to get the metallic particles into the mix. Test the color on the included card to see how the flakes settle before you touch the actual bodywork. When you apply the paint, keep the container moving at a steady pace to avoid heavy spots where the metal might clump. Use several thin layers and give the surface plenty of drying time between applications to build the depth your Thunderbird deserves.