Jason C.

Hey guys,

Is there a way to know or find out, EXACTLY, what paint/s were used on my car originally. Like, if I wanted to have it repainted and cleared with the exact same colors used originally? It's an 86 and while it's in great shape, I've been considering having it repainted and cleared since a buddy of mine is an excellent painter. I like the originality of the car, even the paint but the time is probably coming. Anyway, If I did get it repainted, I'd want the exact colors used originally. Since it was born in 1986, I don't know if it's even possible to find that info and if it is.....would I even want that same paint?(I'm sure there have been many advancements in paint over the years.) Any help/suggestions appreciated.

Thanks,
Jason

A photo for example of colors. It is clear coated. In fact, I believe that's the main issue for me. Some swirls and a little peeling by the door handles.

82tarecaro

iTrader: (4)

My 82 was originally painted with enamel. I just had it repainted in urethane bc/cc and the painter used the color codes on the car to get a great match to the original colors. It is black and gold and I was worried about the gold matching, but the modern paints are able to be mixed to the same colors as what was on our cars when they were new.

Jason C.

Thanks for the info. Forgive my ignorance but where can I find the paint codes?

82tarecaro

iTrader: (4)

Inside your console there should be an RPO list. It should be on there somewhere. My 82 was different, as the early third gens had the info on a data plate under the hood.

NowhereFast

His car has a base coat/clear coat from the factory. They made the switch in 1986 from enamel.

What the paint codes are, I don't know. I just don't want you to have the wrong information.

KMK454

It's a tough call between great original paint and a perfect repaint... It's only original once, but original paint won't look perfect forever. The good news is you have time on your side because your car looks good now and will continue to look good for some time.

I'd look at who the paint supplier was for GM at the time; I bet they kept records of what paint corresponded to what GM color. Also, I bet that exact paint no longer exists due to EPA regs changing how paint is made/sprayed over the past 20+ years.

Jason C.

This is what I have been told too. Thanks, again, for the help guys.

82tarecaro

iTrader: (4)

Modern urethanes are worlds better then the original GM paint from the 80's. The BC CC was brand new technology at the time, and many of them suffered from peeling issues. The older single stage paints sucked too, and most are not available today. Don't be afraid to use modern paints on your car. Chances are they are better then what was on the car, and will give you the same, if not better look then original. Just make sure you go to someone who preps the car right. Black is very unforgiving.

Jason C.

This is both great and discouraging information. Haha thank you.

Jason C.

Great info and suggestions. It's as if my buddy(the painter)typed it. He says the same things. Thanks man.

82tarecaro

iTrader: (4)

Yeah - I have just been through all of this with my car.
Good luck with it. I know you have had the car a long time. Mine has been around since I was a kid too so I wanted it done right. I probably put more money into it then what it's worth, but she is a part of the family.

Jason C.

Well said and I, completely, understand. Thanks again.

Jason E

Beautiful 86!! I had a blue hardtop version of your car I sadly sold in May. Is yours TPI? Mine was a TPI with a 2.77 rear...most gutless V8 F body I've ever owned, but with the base suspension and the creamy automatic it was smooooth. A great cruiser. I miss it...wish I hadn't sold it.

Mine had 34k miles on it, but was a full respray because it sat outside for some time. I say repaint it...it'll be a knockout shiny

Jason C.

I'll be honest, I'm not the biggest car guy. Mine is a carbureted 305. Nothing fancy as far as I know but like yours, a great cruiser and a blast to drive. More than anything I just want to keep it as nice as possible and in the family. I know it's nothing special but it was to me when I got my first, real, job to buy it from my grandfather and I took the best of care of it. I only hope my nephew enjoys it when it's his turn to put his name on the title.

mantaguy

iTrader: (5)

Well,Pontiac only used 1 Black Color for the 86 Fire Bird/TAs,Code 41.Your RPO list should have WA8555 BC/CC.And the fad dot stripes
and decals are available from http://www.phoenixgraphix.com/gm.htm#trans_am

82tarecaro

iTrader: (4)

There should be a code for the gold on there too.

mantaguy

iTrader: (5)

That would be Code 60,RPO Code WA8753.That was used on Fire Birds/TAs for 1986.

82tarecaro

iTrader: (4)

Mantaguy - did you memorize the paint codes?

mantaguy

iTrader: (5)

No,I have a 1986 Pontiac Firebird car order worksheet.

Jason C.

Wow. Thanks guys. Amazingly helpful. Much appreciated. Will update if/when I decide to have it painted.

mantaguy

iTrader: (5)

That's a beautiful survivor,keep it original.

JT

iTrader: (1)

Just wanted to add that's a nice looking Trans Am, especially with the black and gold combo.

Jason C.

Thanks very much guys.