Topic: Is there a way to determine original paint scheme?

[Scott S]

 My '71 CB500 was missing the side covers and the tank had been repainted. Even when I stripped it I couldn't find any remnants of the original paint scheme. (see my avatar)
 I sourced another tank and side covers and did my own paint job. I may not be able to save the tank if I can't stop the seam leak BUT, I have another CB500 tank to work with.

 If I have to use the spare tank I think I'm going to order the paint kit from Vintage Honda Paint, but what color? I'm a huge fan of the Candy Jade green, but that's for a 550.
 Is there a way to find out what MY CB500 came with from the factory? Some #'s in the VIN or something?
 If I go this route, I think I'd like to go back with whatever it left the factory with.....I think....

[Gordon]

Nothing in the VIN that indicates original paint color, unfortunately.  That can be a good thing, though.  You can choose between any paint schemes available for that year and it will be correct. 

Best way to tell is usually to look at the back of the side covers or the under-side of the tank, because those sections often don't get covered when repainting, but that's obviously not an option for you at this point. 

[dave500]

when i stripped my tank i stripped it underneath and everywhere! i had it painted the original colour,if you have an old rego label it might state the colour?in aus here for example mine says orange/black,if your labels state a colour that might be a lead,,or an old rego number,,might be able to track it back,,although phone calls to the rego place mostly result in frustration.