COLOR CODE500 (1971) - BlackGMC Touch-Up Paint

The Look

In 1971, this shade was the skin of a workhorse rather than a fashion statement. Whether you are patching a scratch on a C-Series or a vintage Jimmy, this finish provides a deep, ink-like depth that modern metallics cannot replicate. It gives your truck a rugged, heavy-duty presence that feels permanent and serious. Since your GMC has likely lived through decades of sun and road debris, the original finish might have shifted slightly, but this remains the foundation for that classic silhouette.

Technical Details

This is a pure solid black with no metallic flake or pearl to hide behind. Solid colors are notoriously honest, meaning they show every imperfection in your surface preparation and every ripple in your application. While the lack of metal particles makes the color easier to match in terms of shade, the high-gloss nature of black reveals dust or uneven texture immediately. You should treat this as a high-stakes finish because solid black is a master at highlighting shadows and reflections.

Best Practices

GMC usually placed the paint information on a Service Parts Identification decal located inside the glove box. Before you prepare to apply GMC Black (check for code 500 (1971)), shake the container for at least sixty seconds to ensure the heavy pigments are fully integrated. Test the color on the included card to verify the match against your specific panels before you touch the vehicle. When applying, keep the container moving to prevent the paint from pooling in one spot, and allow for plenty of drying time between each light layer to prevent runs.