I say definitely running boards should be black. And since your truck is a Merc I say go with black fenders.

 

Before I saw your pictures my answer was going to be 'red'. But having seen them I would now say 'black'.

 

I'd definitely go with black fenders and running boards. It looks great, and it's the way Canadian trucks were intended to look. There are lots of solid red trucks around. Your Mercury will stand out, as it was intended to, with its unique trim and color scheme.

Jim

 

It's a Merc, go black. They just do not look right without black fenders.

 

To be honest they both look great , but my preference is all red .

 

I vote for black fenders. Both the example trucks look gorgeous.

 

Both look great, to me, and it appears you know all about the historical aspect of black fenders on Canadian trucks. If you were doing a correctly restored truck, I'd definitely say go black. If it's more of a hot rod type, then you could go either way. Beyond that, since you're the one who gets to walk in the garage and look at it every day, go with whichever one gives you the biggest smile when you look at it.

 

Echoing what others said, they both look great. But the Mercury badge with those black fenders just seems right.

 

 

Mercury says black. Less trouble on repaints later too!
In other words, 10 years from now, That red might have a touch of color change. Try to mix old red with fresh red.
You will have the possiblity of at least a slight difference.
Go black!

 

Thank you everyone for your input. I appreciate all the experience we have on this site! I am leaning towards black, I had already bought the paint. But ws finding I was staring at this for so long they started to look the same. I had never thought about the repaint but that is very true. The goal for the truck is stock looking from the outside. But it's going to be used daily thru spring summer and fall. For my construction work... more quoting and light hauling. :-)
Thanks again
Zac
Thanks

 

If and when I ever get my truck back, I will be painting the fenders black.

Later!
Mr. Ed

 

I vote for Black fenders

 

Go black. Our truck came with black from previous owner so they have stayed that way. However, since a repaint is due, I think we will go with all green next time. Your truck definitely looks great in black.