Abstract: An apparatus and technique for applying markings or decorations to the sidewall of a cured tire. A thin polyester carrier sheet has a thermoplastic transfer stock thereon. A heated die is provided having thereon the geometric configuration of the desired marking or decoration. The heated die is urged against the transfer laminate to impinge the transfer stock against the sidewall of the cured tire. The heat of the die effects a release of the transfer stock from the carrier sheet in areas congruent with the indicia carrier by the die. The affinity of the transfer stock for the tire is greater than its affinity for the carrier sheet and the transfer is thus made.

Abstract: Paint compositions suitable for forming decals which can be applied to vehicle tire sidewalls. The compositions comprise a saturated elastomer having a glass transition temperature not higher than -40 degrees C., a pigment which is preferably titanium dioxide in an amount in the range of 0.5 to 10 times the weight of elastomer, and a solvent. Compositions of this invention are resistant to ultraviolet light and ozone, maintain color and integrity during outdoor aging, and have a long fatigue life.

Abstract: Method for making a tire whose white sidewall portion is created by, selectively, providing a circumferential groove in the molded tire, buffing the surfaces of the groove, placing an adhesive in the groove, heating the tire about 138.degree. C. to dry the adhesive, bringing the tire temperature to about 100.degree. C. and, while rotating the tire with the groove in a substantially horizontal plane, directing a stream of white polyurethane stock into the groove by means of an applicator which is formed to direct the stock in differing volumes into the bottom of the groove and laterally against its corners and sides; the white sidewall strip so formed has the shape of a concave meniscus.

Abstract: Polyurethane pneumatic tires with colored sidewalls are produced by applying one or more elastomeric coatings thereto. A colored polyurethane elastomeric coating may be applied directly to the sidewall, but it may be applied to a primer elastomeric coating which is first applied and the colored coating is applied to it either before or after it is cured. The color of the colored coating may be produced by dyeing or pigmenting.