COLOR CODE85 (1979) - TangerineFord Touch-Up Paint

The Look

This is the quintessential 1979 high-impact color. It isn't the muted, earthy copper or brown typically associated with the seventies; instead, it is a loud, pure orange that looks like it belongs on a vintage F-150 or a high-spirited Pinto. Because your vehicle has likely spent over forty years on the road, the original finish might have shifted slightly toward a flatter or chalkier look. When you apply this fresh pigment, you are bringing back that factory saturation that defined the end of the decade.

Technical Details

This is a solid finish, which means you do not have to worry about metallic flakes settling unevenly or creating dark spots. However, bright oranges are notorious for being somewhat transparent. If you have a dark primer or a deep scratch, the old color might try to peek through your first few layers. To get the best results, you need to build the color up gradually rather than trying to hide the damage in one heavy pass. Solids like this are very forgiving to blend, but they require patience to reach full opacity.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Ford Tangerine (check for code 85 (1979)), you need to shake it for 60 seconds to ensure the heavy orange pigments are fully suspended. You can find your code on the driver's side door jamb, usually listed on the safety certification label. Always test the color on the included card to see how it reacts to your specific lighting. Whether you are using a pen or a spray can, keep the container moving to avoid puddles and ensure the drying time is consistent between layers. If you are working in a garage or the shade, make sure the surface is cool to the touch so the paint can level out properly.