Abstract: A method selectively forms indicia of a tire sidewall. The method includes the steps of engaging a surface of an uncured tire by a first indicia forming member of a tire mold member, detaching the first indicia forming member from the tire mold member by a hand tool, and securing a second indicia forming member to the tire mold member by an impact device.

Abstract: An apparatus selectively forms indicia of a tire sidewall. The apparatus includes a tire mold member for vulcaninzing an uncured tire. The tire mold member includes a surface engageable with a portion of the uncured tire, a detachable indicia forming member engageable with a portion of the uncured tire to form indicia on a surface of the tire sidewall, and a housing for releasably retaining the indicia forming member on the tire mold member. The housing is fixed to the tire mold member and releasably secures the indicia to the tire mold member. The indicia forming member is secured to the housing by an impact device applied in a first direction and released from the housing by mechanical pressure to one end portion of the indicia forming member applied in the first direction.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a mold having a wall with a recess defined therein and magnetic means, wherein an associated insert is adapted to be selectively held within the recess via the magnetic means, such that the insert is substantially flush with the wall. Using the magnetic inserts in both the upper and lower mold halves results in a tire identification number being imprinted on both sides of a tire during a curing cycle. The inserts are easily and quickly changed so that down time during production is minimized, tire appearance is improved, and eliminates tire scrap.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a mold having a wall with a recess defined therein and magnetic means, wherein an associated insert is adapted to be selectively held within the recess via the magnetic means, such that the insert is substantially flush with the wall. Using the magnetic inserts in both the upper and lower mold halves results in a tire identification number being imprinted on both sides of a tire during a curing cycle. The inserts are easily and quickly changed so that down time during production is minimized, tire appearance is improved, and eliminates tire scrap.