RockFish, which ever way you go I agree, STRIP IT! Whether you sand it all down,{time consuming} or you use a good paint striper {Alcohol base is best} take it down to the bare metal first then use OSPHO {phosphoric acid} this will kill any surface rust. Now you have a good starting point to go whichever way you decide. If you are considering painting, EMRON is an awesome paint{aircraft paint, about $100.00 a gal}, but needs to be applied by someone with a fresh air supply as it will kill you. HammerRight would be my next step down. I painted a 1960 boat trailer{my sled's} about 4 years ago with it and no rust yet. Next step down would be Rustoleum with Rust Protection. Prime the metal first with either of their primers, in a shop, ect. aleast 65 degrees. Warmer means faster drying and recoat times. Read the labels well for recoat times, too long and it will wrinkle on your next coat and you'll get to start all over. I learned the hard way on recoating. Oh yes, stay away from Latex paints, as they are not very durable. I hope this helps. G-MAN

[ 01-02-2002: Message edited by: G-MAN ]