How to soften older kit tires

[Chevy II]

I am trying to use a couple of tires from parts stash. One is nice and pliable, but one is pretty stiff. Is there anyway I can soften this tire?

[oldcarfan]

I've dropped them in nearly boiling water for a little while. A few minutes in that usually softens them up enough to get them on the wheels.

[Mittagskind]

If them made of rubber, you can put them in an oven or a micro wave, until they are soft enough.

[slusher]

I knew a builder who has passed on that put hard  tires in a bowl of water and put them in the microwave a little bit of time until they get soft..

Edited January 11, 2024 by slusher
Typo

[redscampi]

8 hours ago, oldcarfan said:

I've dropped them in nearly boiling water for a little while. A few minutes in that usually softens them up enough to get them on the wheels.

This is good advice. I’ve used this method with success. Definitely works on Pocher tires. 

[redscampi]

7 hours ago, Mittagskind said:

If them made of rubber, you can put them in an oven or a micro wave, until they are soft enough.

I’m curious if when they cool they are harder than were going in to the microwave. I mean, it works like that on food?

[Mittagskind]

12 minutes ago, redscampi said:

I’m curious if when they cool they are harder than were going in to the microwave. I mean, it works like that on food?

You shouldn't eat them.?