Ford Hot Ginger Metallic (Z-TRUCK (1974)) Touch Up Paint

The Look

Ford hit a high note for truck design in the mid-seventies, and this burnt copper tone is perhaps the most iconic shade from that era. It defines the look of the 1974 F-Series and the first-generation Bronco, offering a deep, earthy warmth that modern tans and oranges cannot replicate. Since your truck has likely spent decades working in the sun or tucked away as a classic, the original finish has almost certainly shifted in tone. This makes blending your repair vital, as the copper depth of the paint changes depending on the angle of the light hitting those rugged body lines.

Technical Details

This is a heavy metallic finish, which means it is packed with tiny flakes that provide its signature glow. Metallic paints carry a specific risk: if the flakes do not distribute evenly, the repair will look blotchy or "mottled." This happens when the paint is applied too heavily in one spot, causing the metal particles to bunch together rather than laying flat. Because it is a 1974 color, the flake size is often more pronounced than the subtle pearls found on modern cars, so consistency is the only way to ensure the repair does not look like a dark stain on your fender.

Best Practices

Before you apply your Ford Hot Ginger Metallic (check your driver side door jamb for code Z-TRUCK (1974)), you must shake the container for at least two minutes. Those heavy metallic flakes love to settle at the bottom, and if you do not mix them thoroughly, the color will come out looking like a flat brown instead of a shimmering copper. Test the color on the included card to confirm the match before touching the truck. Whether using a pen or a can, keep the container moving to maintain an even flow of pigment. Work in a cool garage or under some shade, and give each layer plenty of drying time to ensure the flakes set exactly where they land.