How to tell if paint is original

[stevemc]

How do you tell if a Panhead is truly original paint?? Any tips or help in telling the authentic bike from a story would help!!

[Cotten]

Let's first consider the obvious:

Is it a "correct" color for the year?

Does scratching below the surface on unseen surfaces reveal other colors, or a primer?

Does modern fuel eat it?

Is it perfect with no runs or even minor 'orange-peel'?

Does light wetsanding reveal a clear coat?

There are many other considerations, but you are at the mercy of your own powers of observation.

And don't feel inadequate, as I have had a customer brazenly submit his Pan for AMCA judging as "Unrestored" and walk away in the very high 90's.
(No, I don't paint, but this was an obvious pro paint job. The Factory might as well have dipped them!)

...Cotten