2011 Polaris Orange Madness Paint Code

There’s nothing quite like the vibrant, head-turning look of a Polaris in Orange Madness. It’s a color that screams adventure. But there’s also nothing more frustrating than a scratch, scuff, or scrape that ruins that perfect finish. You know the feeling—that one ugly mark that your eyes are drawn to every time you look at your machine.

You’ve probably wondered how you can get a perfect match without spending a fortune at a body shop. You’re in the right place. We promise this is the most comprehensive guide you’ll find on the 2011 polaris orange madness paint code, a color that has a bit of a reputation for being tricky.

We’re going to break down exactly what the code is, how to source the right paint, and the step-by-step process to get a repair that looks like it came straight from the factory. We’ll cover surface prep, application techniques, and how to avoid the common mistakes that trip up most DIYers. Let’s get that rig looking pristine again.

What Exactly Is the 2011 Polaris Orange Madness Paint Code?

First things first, let’s clear up a common misconception. “Orange Madness” is the marketing name for the color, not the formula a paint shop needs. To get a perfect match, you need the specific paint code that tells a supplier the exact recipe of tints, pearls, and metallics.

For this iconic color, the code you’re looking for is Polaris P908. This is the key that unlocks the exact formula for your machine’s finish.

Think of it like a recipe for a cake. Just saying “chocolate cake” isn’t enough. You need the precise measurements of flour, sugar, and cocoa. The paint code P908 does the same thing for the various pigments that create that deep, vibrant orange. This is a critical first step in our 2011 polaris orange madness paint code guide.

Finding Your Paint Code and Sourcing the Right Paint

While we know the code is P908, it’s always a good practice to verify it on your own machine. Factory specs can sometimes have mid-year variations. Plus, knowing where to look is a crucial skill for any future repairs.

Where to Look on Your Polaris

Polaris typically places a sticker with vehicle information, including the paint code, in a few common spots. Grab a flashlight and check these locations:

Under the seat on the frame.
On the frame in one of the front wheel wells.
Inside the glove box compartment, if your model has one.

If the sticker is missing or unreadable (a common issue after a few too many mud baths), don’t panic. Simply call your local Polaris dealership with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). They can look up the original factory specs and confirm the exact paint code for you.

Your Best Options for Buying the Paint

Once you’ve confirmed the P908 code, you have a few options for getting your hands on the paint. Each has its pros and cons.

OEM Polaris Paint: Your dealership can order official Polaris touch-up pens or aerosol cans. This is often the most guaranteed match but can also be the priciest option. It’s great for very small rock chips.
Specialty Powersports Paint Suppliers: Companies like ColorRite or TCP Global specialize in matching factory powersports colors. They can provide the P908 formula in aerosol cans, quart cans for spray guns, and touch-up bottles. This is often the best balance of quality and cost.
Local Automotive Paint Shop: A good local auto body supply store can mix the P908 formula for you. This is an excellent option if you have your own spray equipment and want a larger quantity. Just be sure they have experience with powersports formulas.

The Ultimate 2011 Polaris Orange Madness Paint Code Application Guide

Getting a pro-level finish is all in the preparation and process. Rushing this stage is the number one reason for a bad result. Follow these steps carefully for a repair you can be proud of. This section covers the best practices for how to 2011 polaris orange madness paint code application.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Safety Gear

Don’t start sanding until you have everything you need. A mid-project run to the auto parts store is a recipe for mistakes. Here’s your checklist:

Safety First: A NIOSH-approved respirator, safety glasses, and nitrile gloves. Paint fumes are no joke.
Cleaning: Wax and grease remover (or isopropyl alcohol) and lint-free towels.
Sanding: A variety of wet/dry sandpaper grits (e.g., 320, 600, 1500) and a sanding block.
Masking: Automotive masking tape and paper.
Priming: A high-quality sandable primer (gray is usually best for orange).
Paint: Your P908 Orange Madness base coat and a quality 2K clear coat. A 2K clear coat has a separate hardener and is far more durable and gas-resistant than a standard 1K clear.
Finishing: A tack cloth to remove dust before painting.

Step 2: Surface Preparation is Everything

This is the most important step. Do not skip this. A perfect paint job on a poorly prepped surface will fail every time.

Clean Thoroughly: Wash the entire area with soap and water, then dry it completely. Follow up by wiping the repair area with wax and grease remover to eliminate any contaminants like oil or silicone.
Sand the Damage: For deeper scratches, start with a lower grit sandpaper (like 320) to smooth the area. Feather the edges of the repair by sanding outwards into the good paint with a finer grit (like 600). The goal is to create a seamless, smooth transition.
Mask Off the Area: Use masking tape and paper to mask off a much larger area than you think you’ll need. Overspray travels!
Apply Primer: Shake the primer can well. Apply 2-3 light coats over the sanded area, waiting 10-15 minutes between coats. Primer fills in small sanding scratches and gives the base coat a uniform surface to stick to. Let it dry completely (check the can for instructions), then lightly sand the primer with 600-grit sandpaper until it’s perfectly smooth.

Step 3: Applying the Orange Madness Base Coat

Now for the fun part. Before you spray your machine, always do a test spray on a piece of cardboard or an old part. This confirms the color matches and lets you get a feel for the nozzle.

Wipe the primed area one last time with a tack cloth to pick up any dust. Shake the Orange Madness paint can for at least two minutes. Hold the can 8-10 inches from the surface and apply light, even coats, overlapping each pass by about 50%. Let each coat “flash” (get tacky) for 5-10 minutes before applying the next. Two to four coats are usually enough for full coverage.

Step 4: Finishing with a Durable Clear Coat

The clear coat provides the shine, UV protection, and chemical resistance. This is what makes your repair last. Let the base coat dry for at least 30-60 minutes before applying clear.

Apply the 2K clear coat using the same technique as the base coat—2-3 wet, even coats. Be careful, as clear coat is more prone to running than the base coat. Once you’re done, carefully remove the masking tape while the clear is still relatively fresh to avoid chipping the edge. Let the panel cure for at least 24 hours before handling, and wait a few weeks before waxing.

Common Problems with 2011 Polaris Orange Madness Paint Code and How to Fix Them

Even with careful prep, things can go wrong. Here are some common problems and solutions that will help you troubleshoot.

Problem: The Color Doesn’t Quite Match

This is a major frustration. The cause is often due to UV fading on the original paint. Your new P908 paint is the factory color, but your 10-year-old plastic may have lightened. The solution is to blend the new paint into the old paint, extending your spray area lightly into the surrounding panel to create a gradual transition.

Problem: “Orange Peel” Texture

This looks like the bumpy skin of an orange. It’s usually caused by the paint drying too quickly before it can level out. To fix it, you can let it cure completely, then wet-sand the clear coat with very fine sandpaper (1500-2000 grit) and polish it back to a shine.

Problem: Paint Runs and Sags

This happens when you apply a coat too heavily or don’t wait long enough between coats. The fix is tedious: you must let the run dry completely, carefully sand it flat without burning through the surrounding paint, and then re-apply your color and clear.

Long-Term 2011 Polaris Orange Madness Paint Code Care Guide

You’ve done the work, now let’s protect it. Proper care will keep your fresh paint job looking great for years to come. This is a key part of any sustainable maintenance plan.

Start by using pH-neutral soaps designed for automotive finishes. Avoid harsh degreasers or dish soaps that can strip wax and dull the clear coat. For an eco-friendly approach, consider waterless wash products for light cleaning, as they conserve water and are often biodegradable.

After washing, apply a quality synthetic wax or sealant every 3-4 months. For the ultimate protection, a ceramic coating provides a hard, sacrificial layer that resists scratches, chemicals, and UV rays, meaning you’ll need to polish and repaint far less often. This is one of the best benefits of 2011 polaris orange madness paint code maintenance—preserving that awesome color.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2011 Polaris Orange Madness Paint Code

Is Polaris Orange Madness a single-stage or two-stage paint?

It is a two-stage (or basecoat/clearcoat) system. You must apply the P908 orange base coat first, followed by a separate clear coat for gloss and protection. Using it without a clear coat will result in a dull, fragile finish.

Can I just use a generic orange spray paint from a hardware store?

We strongly advise against this. Hardware store paint lacks the specific metallic and pearl pigments that give Orange Madness its depth. It also won’t have the durability to withstand gasoline, oils, and the rigors of off-roading.

How much paint do I need?

For small rock chips, a touch-up pen is enough. For a scratch a few inches long, one aerosol can of color and clear should be plenty. If you’re painting an entire fender or large panel, you’ll likely need two cans of each to ensure proper coverage.

Getting your Polaris looking brand new again is well within your reach. Finding the 2011 polaris orange madness paint code (P908) is the first step, but the real magic is in the patient prep work and careful application. Take your time, follow the steps, and don’t be afraid to practice on something else first.

Now get out there, get that rig looking sharp, and hit the trails. Ride safe!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.