Jk -
One thing no one mentioned was Ospho or a similar phosphoric acid rust neutralizer. They go on like water and chemically neutralize the rust, leaving a whitish coating. I'm in CT, and Ospho is not available, but Home Despot DOES carry a similar product in the paint section that's called chemical etch. It comes in translucent gallon plastic jugs, and the liquid itself is dark green. You might want to give it a try.
Chris
