[stephen f. polyak]

Mark,

Irrespective of any reason for keeping the wheels on one side or facing one direction alone (and that need is not obvious since they should normally be interchangeable), it would seem odd to use color as means to differentiate. Color is not foolproof; the associated side could be misinterpreted (human error). If it was truly important, the means to keep items properly located in this case would be designed into the tire or rim. The fact that such color pairing is apparently rare, further discredits it being associated with physical orientation.

Could this be ornamentation of a kind? One other remote possibility: it been reported that rims and struts on later model Me 109s (Fw 190s?) were sometimes painted red to indicate to ground crew that a particular octane fuel was to be use; there is photo evidence of such practice (color photos no less).

r/Steve

PS: I sent you a private message on another matter.