There’s nothing quite like the feeling of hitting the trails on your Polaris Sportsman 850 SP. But there’s also nothing quite like the sinking feeling of seeing that first deep scratch or rock chip in its beautiful finish. It’s a magnet for your eyes every time you walk past it.
You might think your only options are to live with the blemish or pay a hefty bill at a body shop. We’re here to tell you there’s a better way. This guide will empower you to find your exact 2017 Polaris Sportsman 850 SP paint code and perform a seamless touch-up yourself.
We’ll cover everything from locating the code on your machine to the step-by-step application process for a repair that will have you second-guessing where the damage even was. Let’s get that rig looking pristine again.
Why a Perfect Match Matters: The Benefits of Using the Right Paint Code
You might be tempted to grab a can of “close enough” black or red from the local auto parts store. Don’t do it. Taking the time to find the correct paint code is the single most important step for a professional-looking repair, and here’s why.
The primary reason is, of course, a perfect color match. Vehicle manufacturers use incredibly specific shades that can vary even from one model year to the next. Using the factory code ensures the new paint blends invisibly with the old, which is one of the key benefits of 2017 polaris sportsman 850 sp paint code accuracy.
Beyond aesthetics, a proper touch-up protects your investment. A quality repair seals the plastic or metal from the elements, preventing further chipping, fading, or potential corrosion on any exposed frame components. This directly impacts your ATV’s long-term durability and resale value.
Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept It: How to Find Your 2017 Polaris Sportsman 850 SP Paint Code
Alright, let’s get down to business. Polaris, unfortunately, doesn’t always make this as easy as car manufacturers do. But with a little searching, you can find what you need. This is your essential 2017 polaris sportsman 850 sp paint code guide to locating that critical information.
Method 1: Check the Machine Itself
Polaris doesn’t use a standardized sticker like you’d find in a car door jamb. Instead, you need to know the official name of your color. The 2017 Sportsman 850 SP came in a few specific colors, which is the key piece of information you’ll need.
- Check Under the Seat: Sometimes, a decal with model and manufacturing information is placed on the frame here. While a paint code is rare, the full model designation can be helpful.
- Inspect the Frame: Look for any stickers or decals on the main frame tubes, particularly near the front of the ATV or down by the footwells.
- Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Your original owner’s manual is a goldmine. It should list the official color specifications for your model year in the technical details section.
Method 2: Use Your VIN
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is your ultimate trump card. If you can’t find the color name anywhere on the machine, your local Polaris dealership can look up your exact model and its original factory color using your VIN. Simply give them a call, and they can provide the color name you need to order paint.
Cracking the Code: Understanding Your Sportsman’s Factory Colors
Unlike a simple code like “WA8555” you’d find on a GM vehicle, Polaris codes are often tied to the color’s marketing name. For the 2017 model year, the Sportsman 850 SP was available in a few distinct colors. Knowing these names is crucial when you go to order paint.
The most common colors for the 2017 Polaris Sportsman 850 SP were:
- Titanium Matte Metallic (Paint Code: P-367)
- Sunset Red (Paint Code: P-354)
- Stealth Black (Often a molded-in color, but touch-up is available)
When you contact a paint supplier like ColorRite or your Polaris dealer, you’ll use both the name (e.g., “Titanium Matte Metallic”) and the corresponding code (P-367) to ensure you get the exact formula. This is one of the most important 2017 polaris sportsman 850 sp paint code tips we can offer.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Paint: A DIYer’s Guide to Making the Right Choice
Once you have your color name and code, you have two main options for sourcing your paint: the dealership (OEM) or a specialized aftermarket supplier.
OEM Paint from Polaris
Getting paint directly from your Polaris dealer is the safest bet for a perfect match. They sell touch-up pens and small aerosol cans designed for their specific colors.
- Pros: Guaranteed color match, correct finish (matte vs. gloss).
- Cons: Can be more expensive, may need to be special-ordered.
Aftermarket Paint Suppliers
Companies like ColorRite specialize in powersports paint and are an excellent resource. They offer a wider range of application types, from small touch-up bottles to larger aerosol cans and even quart containers for spray guns.
- Pros: Often more affordable, wider variety of sizes, excellent quality.
- Cons: You must be 100% certain of your color code before ordering.
For those interested in a more sustainable 2017 polaris sportsman 850 sp paint code solution, look for suppliers offering low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) formulas. These are a more eco-friendly 2017 polaris sportsman 850 sp paint code option that releases fewer harmful solvents into the atmosphere during application.
From Scuff to Shine: Your Step-by-Step Touch-Up Guide
Got your paint? Great! Now comes the fun part. Following these 2017 polaris sportsman 850 sp paint code best practices will ensure your repair is durable and nearly invisible. Remember, patience and prep work are 90% of the job.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, get everything you need in one place. You’ll want:
- Your factory-matched touch-up paint
- High-quality automotive masking tape
- Wax and grease remover or isopropyl alcohol
- Lint-free microfiber towels
- Fine-grit sandpaper (1500-2000 grit) for smoothing
- Primer (if the scratch is down to bare plastic/metal)
- Clear coat (if your factory color requires it)
- Safety gear: Nitrile gloves and safety glasses are a must.
Step 2: The All-Important Prep Work
First, thoroughly wash and dry the entire area around the scratch. Then, use the wax and grease remover on a clean microfiber towel to wipe down the immediate area. This ensures the new paint has a perfectly clean surface to adhere to. Mask off the area around the scratch to protect the surrounding paint.
Step 3: Application is Key
How you apply the paint depends on the size of the repair. For a tiny chip, a touch-up pen or a fine artist’s brush is perfect. For a longer scratch, an aerosol can is better.
- Apply Primer (If Needed): If the scratch is deep, apply a very thin layer of primer and let it dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Apply the Base Coat: Shake the paint can or bottle thoroughly. Apply very thin, light coats. It’s much better to apply three thin coats than one thick, heavy coat. A heavy coat will run and look sloppy.
- Allow Proper Drying Time: Wait the recommended time between coats (usually 10-15 minutes). Rushing this step is a common mistake.
- Apply Clear Coat: Once the base color is dry, apply 1-2 thin coats of clear coat if your color requires it (most metallics do). This protects the color and provides the correct sheen.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
After the clear coat has cured for at least 24 hours, you can gently wet-sand the area with 2000-grit sandpaper to level the new paint with the old. Follow this with a light polishing compound to restore the shine. This final step is what makes a repair truly disappear.
Common Problems with 2017 Polaris Sportsman 850 SP Paint Code Touch-Ups (And How to Avoid Them)
Even with the right code, things can go wrong. Here are some common problems with 2017 polaris sportsman 850 sp paint code repairs and how to sidestep them.
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The Problem: Poor Color Match. Even with the right code, the color looks off.
- The Fix: This is often due to faded original paint. Try applying a polishing compound to the surrounding area before you start to restore its original luster. Also, always shake your paint can for at least two full minutes to ensure the metallic flakes and pigments are properly mixed.
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The Problem: Paint Runs or Drips.
- The Fix: You applied too much paint at once. Remember the golden rule: multiple thin coats are always better than one thick coat. Hold the aerosol can about 10-12 inches from the surface.
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The Problem: A Rough, “Orange Peel” Texture.
- The Fix: This can be caused by spraying too far away, in temperatures that are too hot, or not applying a wet enough coat. After it cures, this can often be fixed with careful wet sanding and polishing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Sportsman’s Paint
Can I use automotive paint on my Polaris Sportsman?
While technically possible, it’s not recommended for a perfect match. Powersports vehicles, especially those with colored plastics, use specific paint formulations with flex agents. Using a dedicated powersports paint supplier is your best bet for durability and color accuracy.
What if my ATV has unpainted, colored plastic? How do I fix that?
If your plastic is “color-molded” (like Stealth Black), deep scratches are harder to fix. For light scuffs, a plastic restorer product or even a gentle application of heat from a heat gun can sometimes minimize their appearance. For deep gouges, replacement of the plastic part is often the only perfect solution.
How long should I wait to wash or wax my ATV after a touch-up?
It’s best to wait at least 30 days before applying any wax or aggressive polishes to the repaired area. This gives the paint ample time to fully cure and harden. You can gently wash it with mild soap and water after about a week.
Conclusion: Get Your Rig Looking Showroom-Ready
Finding your 2017 Polaris Sportsman 850 SP paint code is the first step toward erasing trail scars and restoring your machine’s pride. It might seem daunting, but by following this guide, you have all the knowledge you need to tackle the job with confidence.
Remember to prioritize preparation, take your time during application, and don’t be afraid to practice on a piece of cardboard first. A little patience will deliver a flawless, professional-grade result that saves you money and gives you the satisfaction of a job well done. Now get out there, and ride with pride!
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