Tyres and rubber components deteriorate more quickly than any other parts on a museum aeroplane. It is often difficult to find replacements for rubber parts and we should give them special care.

Tyres are the aeroplane's most conspicuous rubber component. They are often designed and made especially for a particular aircraft and they have a limited shelf life. Every restoration project presents its own set of challenges when it comes to tyres, and every solution is unique. Mikesh discusses various types of tyres and tyre design and notes that it is sometimes necessary to find a substitute for an original wheel when a replacement tyre cannot be found. Although it is an irreversible process, and one to be avoided if possible, it might be necessary to fill original tyres with foam to maintain their shape.

The single most important preservation technique that must be applied to the tyres on an aircraft is to relieve the load on them by placing the aircraft on jack stands wherever possible. Such stands are usually support the undercarriage directly and can be made to be inconspicuous so as not to detract from the display. Tyres should also be protected from direct sunlight, oil, and hydraulic fluid to maximize their life span.

Mikesh's final note on the restoration and preservation of tyres and other rubber components is to counsel us to investigate the latest advances and technologies for the preservation of rubber products.