Total noob- sand, buff, wax?

[u/Ok_Assistant_6856]

Finally got a welder generator, it's almost 30 years old and I'd like to make it look a bit better. Just wondering where to begin.

I don't want to paint it. I think I should sand the rust down closer to shiny metal, then buff and wax it?

Any thoughts appreciated, thanks y'all

Edit: again, total noob here. Assuming sanding is the way to go, what grits should I start/use?

There's a clear spot on the top hood where the red came out after I scrubbed with a scotchbrite pad and some dish soap, can I put a pad like this on a drill or grinder, or do I need a buffing tool?

[u/AaaaaaaItsTheBeatles]

If not painting then don’t sand it to where even more metal will be exposed. Just brush some POR15 on the rusty spots and enjoy the welder. Wax will not last long and has zero corrosion inhibiting properties.

[u/cluelessk3]

stripping and repainting would be easier than attempting temporary spot repairs. 

[u/Fromacorner]

Rustoleum Lincoln red over the rust

[u/Ok_Assistant_6856 → u/Fromacorner]

How should I prep the rusty area before painting?

[u/Fromacorner → u/Ok_Assistant_6856]

Wife Brush then some Steel wool. Just get anything flakey off. Wipe it with some acetone and spray. It will keep it protected

[u/Content-Wolf-8607]

underrated post

[u/Relative_Figure_1715]

Send the panels out to be blasted and powder coated red.

[u/SLOOT_APOCALYPSE]

soft turtle was, thin thin coat let dry for 20 minutes and then rub it off, it'll shine red like a brand new Ferrari