Bicycle Mechanics - Surface rust question...

I just picked up a Lemond Maiilot Jaune frame off of ebay.. and overall it looks to be in pretty good shape... one thing I did notice was a very light spot of surface rust down in the bottom bracket... it is definitely not very much.. not enough for me to worry about anyways.. but my question is... what is the best way to remove it ?? I was thinking some light steel wool would work well, or some scotchbrite... it is near the threads in there, and do not want to do anything to damage the threads.. is steel wool safe ?? is there anything I can coat the inside tubing with, to help thwart rust in the future ?? I have heard some people spraying Wd-40 inside.. but I dunno... right now it is just a frame and fork.. no components... I just wanna make sure it is all good before I build it up

Thanks

Jeff

Is that a steel bike? If it is, then steel wool will do fine. The threads are stronger than that. You can protect the exposed areas by spraying LPS Rust Inhibitor on them. You can get this at the local hardware store. It coats the exposed area by leaving a waxy film, inhibiting rust.

Thanks Chi... it is a steel bike.. Reynolds 853 Pro steel :-)

Jeff

Jeff,

after you get that cleaned up, go to LBS, buy a can
of Weigle's Frame Saver and apply according to directions
before you build up the bike.
If I recall you live near the coast (the left one) this stuff
will help keep your frame happy in the high humidity, and
salt spray.

Marty

A second on the Frame Saver. I've have had good experience with it. At least I haven't had a frame with any visible rust in the ten years I have used. I take the seat post out every other year and hit it again lightly to insure it stays protected. Also is recommended by Sheldon Brown.

Post your MA after you get built up. Sounds like it will make a great ride!

Thanks for the responses guys... I will start to take care of it this weekend... might be a few months before I have it all up and running... the frame alone blew most of the money I had saved up... I need to find more stuff to Ebay :-)

I will definitely post pics though.. when I am done :-)

Jeff

Another rust protection alternative for inside the tubes: Boeshield (http://www.boeshield.com/).