Originally Posted By: doitmyself
slimjim,
The 303 site claims that tires have embedded "waxes" that migrate to the surface to give protection. They claim:
"Petrochemicals and silicone oils can remove the protective waxes and increase the rate of degradation. Common automotive "protectants" and "tire dressings" are typically devoid of UV stabilizers of any type and contain petrochemicals and/or silicone oils which dissolve away the protective waxes and can actually aggress the sidewall. In the event of warranty sidewall failure, one of the first things tire manufacturers look for is evidence of the use of these types of products. When found, this is often cause for not warranting the sidewall failure."
The "experts" say to stay away from clear, greasy type tire dressings and only use "milky" watery type products.
Take it for what it's worth.
That's correct regarding tires. "Protectants" (even the old standby ArmorAll) will do more harm to a tire than good. About the only thing they are good for is dressing up its appearance.
I don't know about it being an "embeded wax" but there are UV inhibitors along with some sort of elastomer conditioner in tire rubber to help prevent deterioration. The UV inhibitors job is obvious. The other compounds in the tire are designed to keep it felxible and are "kneeded and worked through" the tire as you drive it (as it bounces/flexes), which is why its a bad idea to leave a vehicle setting for months on end without taking it out for a moderate length drive (30mi or so) since those conditioners don't have a chance to get "worked through" the tire.
Tire dressings or protectants will strip away the UV inhibitors causing faster deterioration of the tires rubber. Not sure of their effect on the rubber conditioners in the tires compound.
As for keeping rubber pliable and durable - pure silicone spray (food grade is the best as its the "purest"). I've got a can of CRC Heavy Duty Silicone Spray multipurpose lubericant that lists rubber on the back as an appropriate application and also lists that it meets the FDA requirements for silicone lubes that may have incidental contact with food. I wipe my door seals down with it 3 or 4 times a year. You can pick it up at most parts stores (and Walmart) for under $2.00