If that part is truly unique to the Electra's Goodyear Airwheel configuration, I can understand some excitement - who wouldn't feel that, it would have to feel like an odd find in such a place.
That said, a couple of things haul it back in -
- I believe the Airwheel was far more prevalent than believed in this article - it was a very common tire/wheel type among the Lockheeds.
- I agree with Gillespie and Long on various contrary points (imagine that distribution of agreement), including I can't see how they would have had the fuel to make an "on the line" call, then break off and fly to the Marshalls.
'Red paint' is a good start, though... I've got some stuff in my shed with old red paint on it, wish I'd of thought of it before.
I know, that's a bit low... sorry. Glad they're looking anyway.