Hey guys! New poster here, but I have been lurking somewhat regularly for a few weeks now. I'm a little late in replying, but better late than never!
Coming from vintage phone restoration and vehicle detailing, I can't stress enough how damaging silicone-based products are for rubber and plastic long-term. Silicone gels and dressings give rubber an artificial shine, but it really leaches out the preservatives that keep the rubber pliable. I've heard horror stories of people using Armorall-type products on their dashboards and exterior rubber trim, only to have the rubber and plastic begin cracking prematurely a couple years later.
I'd recommend using 303 Aerospace Protectant. It's water-based, and contains UV protectants with an SPF of 40, which is better than most sunscreens. It leaves behind a nice satin factory-like finish, but is completely dry to the touch. Just spray down the part you want treated, let it soak, and buff off the excess after 15-30 minutes with a dry towel. After several rain showers, the finish will appear to wear off, but trust me, it's still there...that's simply excess being washed off. On very non-porous surfaces, expect the treatment to last about a month before a recommended re-application. The more porous the surface, the longer it should last, and it should last indefinitely on objects not directly exposed to rain.
I use it for both of my F150s, plus my Dad's Deuce, so I go through a lot of it in one Summer. People who reapply 303 every month or so (or only once a year in some cases) still have like-new rubber and plastic parts years later.
Oh, and yes, it makes your tires look nicer. You can use it more as a protective measure against sidewall and tread checking from baking in the sun, but the 'new' look it gives the tires over an extremely shiny fake look is a nice side effect. Try it on faded 3-color camo as well.
It's expensive (cheaper per ounce in the gallon jug), but really worth it. Many, many positive reviews on Amazon, so don't just take my word for it.
https://www.amazon.com/303-30313-CS...pID=41PdIKSM9QL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch
