Lincoln M III Paint Info
The Color Breakdown
Lincoln didn't just release a car with the M III; they released a rolling art gallery. With 174 recorded colors, they truly "went for it" during this era. You'll find everything from the sophisticated Black to the wilder Ginger Bronze Moondust Poly and the dazzling Unique Gold Diamond Flare Poly. These names aren't just for show-the "Moondust" and "Diamond Fire" series were packed with extra metallic flakes designed to catch the sun and make the neighbors jealous.
What to Watch For
Before you start, you need to find your "birth certificate." For the Lincoln M III, your paint code is usually living on the Warranty Plate, which is tucked away on the rear (lock) face of the driver's side front door. Look for the "COLOR" or "EXT PNT" section.
Keep an eye out for "checking"-those tiny, spiderweb-like cracks that often appear on the long, flat hood or trunk of these classics. Because these cars originally used acrylic lacquer, the paint can get a bit "chalky" or oxidized over time. If your touch-up paint looks a shade brighter than the rest of the car, it's likely because the original finish has matured. Getting a perfect match in these cases simply requires patience and a clean surface.
Driveway Repair Tip
Those "Moondust" and "Diamond Fire" colors are heavy on the sparkle, which means the metallic flakes like to settle at the bottom of the bottle. Shake your touch-up pen or bottle for a full two minutes-longer than you think you need to-to wake up those sparkles.
When applying, remember that light layers are better than one thick blob. If you're filling a chip, use a toothpick to dab a tiny amount of paint into the center and let it flow to the edges. This prevents the metallic flakes from "clumping" together, ensuring your repair catches the light just as beautifully as the rest of your Lincoln.