Keeping Rubber Pliable and Durable

[Boomer]

Almost all rubber is formulated with a wax to give ozone protection and yes, it does work by migrating to the surface to form a protective barrier. Removing the wax will cause the rubber to crack faster. Actually, your best bet is to just wash the tires with car wash soap and water when you wash the car. Just a gentle wash with a wet rag and a rinse. Let them air dry. You'll keep the wax protectant in place better and longer.

 

[BetaBear]

He's looking for protecting the rubber on his engine mount. UV protection will do him no good in this situation because the engine mount rarely see's the light of day unless you open the hood.

 

[salesmantony]

Yes, pure silicone dielectric grease does not swell rubber and should work well in this application. I would advise against vaseline, or other petroleum products that will oversoften or even dissolve the rubber.

 

[bcossa2001]

Why not the vegetable oil? My Haynes manual says to use it on the CV boots....