I have searched the boards with some success regarding finding a match for the black paint on my steering column. It is 1971 GS. I would like to repaint ( top hub,rally wheel) it and am not a restorer by any means. For example, it shows Ditlzer 9387 as the color, but that means very little to me, also there is mention of W25A for semi gloss and tintometer formulaNo. 170B40. All this is like Greek to me,... Is there some paint that is in a small spray can that is a match as I lost as to what to use. It would seem that one would need a fairly large quantity if they took the above info into a paint store for a match. Also, would the interior metal be an enamel or laquer paint? Thanks, Steve
Steve, the interior paints used by GM were lacquers. There were two gloss types used. There was a semi gloss used on most areas such as lower dash steering column etc. and flat used on upper dash and around rear window to prevent glare. The assembly maunual shows WOA after the color for flat. I have had good success with tower paints giving them the GM paint codes and they mix it up in spray bombs. You can buy however many you need and black is nuch easier to match than other colors. Everyone here like SEM products but I am not sure what type of paint it is. I myself prefer what was original. Just do not try and paint with the lacquer over something that was repainted by someone else. If they used enamel the lacuer will cause lift and lots of misery. For some reason original steering columns often appear more flat like the upper dash but maybe this is the ravages of time taking effect. You W25A sounds correct for GM color but I can check what assembly manual says for semi gloss or flat if you need.
Also the rally wheel paint was an enamel semi gloss black. Maybe that is the w25A? Rustoleum semi gloss black works well on the wheels.
As you said the Ditzler # for semigloss black is 9387 and the flat is #9317. I can get GM #s later. Google auto color library and find 71 Buick paint chart and check out second page that shows where different shades are used. Also try Tower Paints search.
