Which device is installed in the inboard half of the main wheels to release air from a tire in case of extreme overheating?

• A. Fusible plugs
• B. Deflator cap
• C. Valve core
• D. Shimmy damper

Answer: (A)

When a tire can overheat, automatic pressure relief is needed to prevent a blowout. Fusible plugs serve this purpose by melting at a set high temperature, opening a path that releases air and reduces tire pressure so the tire doesn’t fail catastrophically. They’re placed in the inboard half of the main wheel because that area is most exposed to the heat generated by braking and the wheel/brake assembly, ensuring the vent activates when overheating is most likely. Normal operation keeps the plug intact, so tire pressure isn’t affected during regular use. Other devices mentioned don’t provide automatic overheat relief: a deflator cap is not an automatic safety release, the valve core governs inflation/deflation under normal conditions, and a shimmy damper deals with steering vibration rather than venting tire pressure.