55.2-59 progress today and questions for the pros

[Black_Sheep]

If blasting isn’t an option get an angle grinder and a cup brush, maybe a few flap discs. After it’s clean a low cost alternative is Rustoleum rusty metal primer and whatever color Rustoleum top coat turns your crank. It can be brushed or rolled on, or thinned and sprayed if you have the means. There are also quality aerosol paints that will do the job. Lots of options...