GMC Medium Blue (510 (1971)) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This is the quintessential blue of the 1971 Action Line trucks. It captures the exact moment GMC shifted from building pure farm tools to creating the versatile pickups and Blazers we collect today. Since your truck has likely been on the road for over fifty years, this color has probably weathered into a softer version of its original self. It is a clean, honest blue that looks its best when paired with the white or woodgrain trim typical of the Cheyenne and Sierra Grande models of that era.

Technical Details

You are working with a solid finish. There is no metallic flake or pearl in this mix, which makes it much easier to apply without worrying about the color changing shades when the light hits it from a different angle. The risk with a solid medium blue is that it shows every high and low spot on the metal. Because this paint lacks the distraction of metal flakes, you need to make sure your surface is as smooth as possible. If your original paint has faded or oxidized into a chalky texture, the new paint will look darker until you buff the surrounding area to bring back the shine.

Best Practices

Your paint code is typically found on the Service Parts Identification sticker located inside your glovebox door. Before you spray or dab GMC Medium Blue (check for code 510 (1971)), you need to shake the container vigorously for at least one minute. Test the color on the included card to see how it sits against your truck's current age and patina. Whether you are working in your garage or under the shade of a tree, keep the container moving to ensure the paint stays even. Allow for plenty of drying time between your layers to prevent the blue from sagging or pooling in the corners of your repair.