The Look

This color is the quintessential professional finish of the late-seventies GMC "Square Body" era. It defined the Sierra, Suburban, and Jimmy models with a deep, industrial blue that feels more substantial than the lighter shades of the early seventies. Since your truck has likely been out in the elements for nearly fifty years, the original finish has probably shifted or oxidized. Do not expect a perfect match against paint that has spent decades in the sun; instead, focus on how the new pigment brings that classic heavy-duty character back to the metal.

Technical Details

This is a true metallic finish, packed with heavy flakes that provide its signature depth. These particles are much denser than the blue pigment, meaning they love to sink and clump at the bottom of your container. If you apply the paint without keeping it perfectly mixed, you will see mottling or dark, splotchy areas where the metal flakes settled unevenly. This color requires a steady hand and a commitment to layering to ensure the metallic bits stay suspended and catch the light the way they did when the truck left the factory.

Best Practices

You should find your identification sticker inside the glove box door or occasionally on the firewall. Before you spray or dab GMC Dark Blue Metallic (check for code 84 (1976)), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. Working in a cool garage or the shade will help the paint lay flat. Test the color on the included card first to see how it interacts with the current state of your truck. When you begin the repair, keep the container moving in a consistent rhythm. Applying several thin layers is better than one heavy pass, as it gives the metallic flakes a chance to set without sagging. Give each layer plenty of drying time so the finish builds up into a durable, professional look.