Why is it recommended to deflate tires on split rim wheels before removal?

Deflating tires on split rim wheels before removal is vital primarily for safety reasons. Split rim wheels can be extremely dangerous if the tire is not deflated first. When a tire is under pressure, it can eject from the rim with significant force if the rim is separated, posing serious injury risks to personnel working on the wheels.

This precaution significantly reduces the risk of accidents during the removal process. Properly deflating the tire allows for safe handling, minimizes the chance of components flying apart unexpectedly, and ensures that all involved can work without the risk of potentially lethal situations arising from the high pressures typically involved with these tire and rim assemblies. Maintaining air pressure, preventing tire damage, and easing removal are important considerations, but they do not match the critical safety necessity of deflation in this context.