In January 1942, the first consumer items to be rationed by the Office of Price Administration were tires.
At the same time, the War Production Board ordered the temporary end of all civilian automobile sales. By February 1942, only certain professions, such as doctors and clergymen, qualified to purchase the remaining inventory of new automobiles.
Automobile factories ceased the manufacture of all civilian models by early February 1942 and converted to producing tanks, aircraft, weapons, and other military products.
Typewriters were rationed in March, and bicycles in May.
Bebe Rebozo, Nixon’s old pal, was rumored to have made his money dealing rationed tires.