Directions for Making Tires Softer

Tires that are used for racing do not have a tread. The condition of the tire determines how well it will perform on the racetrack. A softer tire will provide more grip and faster laps around the track. To soften a tire, a pre-mixed compound is available, which can be expensive. If you do not want to pay for this type of product, you can make your own.

Things You'll Need

  • Acetone
  • Mineral Spirits
  • Transmission fluid
  • Wire brush
  • Paint tray
  • Mix equal parts of the acetone, mineral spirits and transmission fluid together in a plastic container depending on how many tires you want to soften.

  • Clean the tires with a wire brush to remove any dirt and debris.

  • Pour a small amount of the softening mixture into a paint tray.

  • Dip a rag, brush or roller into the tire softener solution. Wipe off any excess solution on the edge of the paint tray.

  • Apply the tire softener evenly to the entire surface of the tire. Rotate the tire, as needed, to cover all of the tire.

  • Allow the tire to dry for at least 1 to 2 hours. Apply a second coat of tire softener to the tire. Allow the tire to dry, and apply a third coat.

  • Repeat this process for all of the tires that you need to soften.