COLOR CODEFS8/DT1643 - Charcoal Pearl MetallicDodge Touch-Up Paint

The Look

This color defined the rugged, professional era of late-eighties Mopar. Whether it was wrapped around the boxy shoulders of a Ramcharger or giving the first-generation Dakota a touch of class, this deep gray was designed to look expensive while hiding the grit of the job site. If you are working on a Caravan or a classic Ram Pickup, you are dealing with a finish that transformed these utilitarian shapes into something more sophisticated. Since your vehicle has been on the road since the late eighties, the original finish has likely weathered a bit, making a proper match essential to keep that classic profile looking cohesive rather than patched together.

Technical Details

This is a pearl metallic finish, which means it carries a lot of complexity for a dark gray. The metallic flakes provide the sparkle, while the pearl pigments create a subtle shift in tone when the sun hits the body lines of your truck. Because these heavy particles tend to sink, you run a high risk of the repair looking too dark or "flat" if the pigments aren't perfectly suspended. If you don't keep the container moving, you might end up with dark blotches or stripes where the metallic settles unevenly. This color requires a steady hand to ensure the shimmer looks uniform across the panel.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Dodge Charcoal Pearl Metallic (check for code FS8/DT1643), you need to shake it for 60 seconds to wake up those settled pearls. You can usually find your paint code on the driver's side door jamb or on the metal identification plate located on the radiator support under the hood. To ensure the flakes lay down flat and mimic the factory finish, always test the color on the included card before moving to the vehicle. Work in a covered garage or a patch of shade to prevent the sun from shortening your drying time too much. When applying, keep the container moving at a constant speed to prevent the metallic from stacking up in one spot, and allow each thin layer to dry completely before adding the next.