COLOR CODEST2 (1981) - CashmereDodge Touch-Up Paint

The Look

This shade is the definition of early eighties utility. Whether it is on a D-Series pickup or a B-Series van, this tan earth tone was built to work. It represents a time when trucks were tools rather than luxury items. Because your vehicle has likely spent decades in the sun or on the job site, this color has probably developed a unique character. It is a humble, understated choice that does a better job of hiding road dust and dried mud than almost any other color from the era.

Technical Details

This is a solid finish, which means you do not have to worry about metallic flakes settling unevenly or looking different from various angles. However, solid colors from this period are notorious for fading or "chalking" over forty years. When you apply new paint to an old surface, the fresh pigment might look slightly deeper than the original. To get the best results, you should focus on building the color with thin, even layers. If you apply it too thick in one go, you risk creating a heavy edge that makes the repair stand out against the weathered factory finish.

Best Practices

To find your confirmation, look for the metal identification plate located on the driver's side door jamb or attached to the radiator support under the hood. Before you spray or dab Dodge Cashmere (check for code ST2 (1981)), you need to shake it for 60 seconds to make sure the pigments are properly mixed. Do not skip this step, as the heavy taints in beige can settle at the bottom of the container. Always test the color on the included card first to see how it reacts to your specific lighting. When you start the repair, keep the container moving to ensure the paint flows evenly across the surface. Give the area plenty of drying time between each layer so the finish sets hard and stays durable.