Plate runner rust

[petej33]

Who has a good method to clean up plate runners that have surface rust?

[MICHAEL]

If just surface rust, I wrap a stoning file in 120-180 grit wet dry sandpaper with a little WD40. File at a 45 angle with pressure. Then change to 220 grit flowed by stoning. Hopefully the rust pits aren’t too deep.
Always store plates with a grease or wipe WD 40 to prevent in the future.

[Geoff Sobering]

Rust on the sides or edges?

[petej33]

Rust is on the sides, the edges are good, and workable/ stonable.  These are not my runners they are a friends who is new and just bought the boat. For some reason my pic wont load, but is along the side, just above the edge, it is kind of built up almost corrosion, with some minor pitting.  Do I just start wet sanding til it gets smooth? Leave it alone? use vinegar or some other rust remover?

Thanks
Pete