I see your surface rust issue
When you get it removed.. im with Joe . media blasting would be great. then use Gibbs on the metal to keep it from happening if you cant paint it or dont want to right away.. Holohans hot rod shop ,Rad Rides and other pro builders use it AND SELL IT. If you contact Dan Holohan who is on this site he will sell it to you and explain it to you.. Dan is a great source of info.
Tom