The Oliver 550, a classic workhorse of the late 1950s, holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors and enthusiasts. Restoring one to its original glory often involves meticulous attention to detail, and paint color is no exception. Determining the precise shade can be tricky, but this guide will delve into the paint colors used on the 1959 Oliver 550, helping you achieve an accurate and authentic restoration.
Unfortunately, pinpointing the exact color codes used by Oliver in 1959 is challenging due to the lack of readily available digital archives. Oliver's paint formulations changed over time, and variations can exist depending on the factory batch and environmental factors. However, through research and consultation with restoration experts and enthusiasts, we can shed light on the most common colors associated with the 1959 Oliver 550.
What Were the Common Paint Colors for a 1959 Oliver 550?
The most common paint color for the 1959 Oliver 550 was a shade of Oliver Green. This wasn't a uniform green across all Oliver tractors; the precise hue varied slightly from year to year and even between production runs. Think of it as a family of greens, rather than one specific shade. Describing it accurately requires using terms like "dark olive green," "forest green," or "deep green." The best approach involves comparing paint chips from reputable restoration suppliers with existing examples of 1959 Oliver 550s or consulting images and videos of well-preserved tractors.
Beyond the primary Oliver Green, other colors were used on the tractor for specific parts. These secondary colors were generally black or a grayish-silver for components like the wheels, grill, or certain metal accents.
Where Can I Find Paint to Match My 1959 Oliver 550?
Many restoration supply companies specialize in creating paint formulated to match vintage agricultural equipment. These companies often work with color charts and sample chips to offer shades closest to the original factory colors. It's recommended to provide them with as much detail as possible about your tractor and your desired outcome.
How Can I Determine the Correct Shade of Green for My Restoration?
Determining the precise shade of Oliver Green for your 1959 Oliver 550 restoration is a process that may involve a few steps.
- Examine Existing Paint: If any original paint remains on your tractor, take samples to a professional automotive or industrial paint supplier for color matching.
- Consult Photographs and Videos: Online resources, including forums dedicated to Oliver tractors, may offer high-quality images or videos of restored 1959 Oliver 550s. These can provide valuable visual references.
- Contact Restoration Experts: Connect with experienced Oliver tractor restorers who may have encountered similar challenges. Their insight can prove invaluable.
- Compare Paint Chips: Obtain paint chips from several restoration supply companies and compare them to your existing paint (if applicable) or reference images.
Did Oliver Use Different Paint Colors for Different Models or Years?
Yes, Oliver's paint schemes varied across models and years. While the Oliver Green was a staple, the exact hue and the use of other colors, such as accents or trim, differed from one model to another and sometimes changed from year to year. Therefore, focusing solely on "1959 Oliver 550 paint colors" is crucial for accuracy.
What Kind of Paint is Best for a 1959 Oliver 550 Restoration?
The optimal paint choice for a 1959 Oliver 550 restoration is an enamel or acrylic urethane that closely matches the original factory finish in terms of durability and gloss. Professional advice from paint specialists specializing in vintage farm equipment restoration is highly recommended to ensure the longevity and authenticity of your project.
This guide provides a starting point for your research into 1959 Oliver 550 paint colors. Remember, accuracy in restoring this classic tractor depends on careful research and attention to detail, making the final result a testament to your dedication and passion.
