Ford Graphite Metallic (YT/49/M6353) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This color is a rare, one-year-only relic from 1990 that helped define the final chapter of the boxy Bronco II and the classic first-generation Ranger. It is an industrial, heavy-metal charcoal that gives the Aerostar a more serious, grounded presence than the lighter silvers found later in the decade. Because your vehicle has likely been facing the elements for over thirty years, the original finish might have lightened or "chalked" slightly from sun exposure. This means a fresh application may appear deeper than your weathered panels, but it remains the most authentic way to restore that rugged, factory-fresh appearance.

Technical Details

This is a true metallic finish, meaning the visual depth comes from thousands of tiny flakes suspended in the paint. These flakes are relatively heavy and tend to settle at the bottom of the container quickly. If you apply the paint too heavily or move too slowly, the flakes can clump together, creating dark patches or "mottling" that looks uneven in direct sunlight. It is a finicky finish to master, but when those particles lay down flat, they catch the light in a way that makes the grey look like polished stone.

Best Practices

You will find your paint code on the safety certification sticker located inside the driver's side door jamb. Before you apply Ford Graphite Metallic (code YT/49/M6353), you must shake the container vigorously for at least sixty seconds to get those metallic flakes properly suspended. Test the color on the included card first to see how the flakes respond to your hand speed. Whether you are using a nozzle or a brush, keep the container moving across the surface to ensure the particles distribute evenly. Always work in a cool garage or the shade to allow for a consistent drying time between your layers.