I would stay away from sand as a blasting media as it can destroy your lungs. Ever heard of Silicosis? I'm having my cab blasted with soda first because it is gentle and will get most stuff off. Then it will be blasted with glass beads for the stubborn rust areas. I tried blasting stuff on my own and found it to be dirty, slow miserable process. I think its worth having someone professional do it.
Good luck
